NEXT MATCH: DARLINGTON 1883 v ALTRINCHAM

Despite the high volume of player turnaround at Altrincham this season, Alty's starting eleven that day comprised nine players who are still at the J. Davidson Stadium.

The squad for that match comprised 1. Andrew DAWBER, 2. Sam PATTERSON, 3. Sam HEATHCOTE, 4. John CYRUS, 5. Tom HANNIGAN, 6. Alan GOODALL (capt), 8. Jake MOULT, 11. David LYNCH, 7. James LAWRIE, 9. Sean MILLER, 10. Damian REEVES, Subs: 12.Jamie MENAGH, 14. Simon RICHMAN, 20. Callum PRESTON, 16. Craig HOBSON, 15. Simon GARNER.

Curiously, Darlington's sixteen-man squad shows more changes than Alty's as the players named that day included seven faces who did not figure in The Quakers' most recent league match, last Saturday.

Right: Dale Johnson in action during the 2011 game at Darlington.

When Alty last played a league match at Darlington, it was at their former 25,000 capacity stadium, now styled the Darlington Arena, on 26 March, 2011.

The Robins ran out 1-0 winners, but the points did not save Alty from relegation that season. The winning goal came from Damian Reeves after 87 minutes. The Northern Echo described the game as "The biggest smash and grab you are ever likely to witness this season"!

Damian and Nicky Clee are the only two still playing at the Club from that time, although Alty's captain in that match was Robbie Lawton who, of course, is also still with us, as assistant manager.

Alty's line-up for the 2011 game was: 1. Stuart COBURN, 2. James SMITH, 5. Robbie WILLIAMS, 4. Marc JOSEPH, 22. Greg YOUNG, 26. Carl PIERGIANNI, 7. Robbie LAWTON (capt), 16. Anthony DANYLYK, 18. Steven CONNORS, 8. Damian REEVES, 9. Michael TWISS, Subs: 14. Dale JOHNSON, 30. Craig DOOTSON, 3. Jonathan BATESON, 11. Nicky CLEE, 17. Wes BAYNES.

For Darlington 1883's most recent league fixture, a home defeat by Harrogate Town, their line up comprised Ed Wilczynski, Josh Falkingham, David Ferguson, Phil Turnbull, Kevin Burgess, Gary Brown, Dave Syers, Leon Scott, Mark Beck, Nathan Cartman, Stephen Thompson. Subs: Liam Hunter, Mark Bell, Josh Gillies, Terry Galbraith, Liam Hardy.

AWAY TRAVEL TO TELFORD

From The New Buck's Head, the Shropshire Star says that "AFC Telford boss Rob Smith has heaped praised on Bucks supporters and is intent on getting the club ‘united again.’ The Bucks lost 2-1 at Salford City on Saturday but put in another solid performance, pleasing a strong contingent that made the trip to Moor Lane.

Off-the-pitch, the club’s board were due to meet tonight at their annual general meeting to discuss how to move forward. Smith said,'I can do my bit on the pitch by getting a team that can show commitment and character, and people come and watch... We have got a completely different feel to us at the moment. We have got something back now; the supporters can see it, and we can feel it'...

Lee Hughes,who got Telford’s goal, impressed at Salford, up front with Dave Hibbert.. Smith said, 'I thought those two were excellent... We could have scored five or six there'.

Telford are in action again tomorrow night, at second-bottom Stalybridge Celtic before hosting rock-bottom Altrincham on Saturday and have some injury worries. Skipper Luca Havern went off at half-time on Saturday with a suspected calf injury and is expected to miss out. John-Paul Kissock (illness) also went off at the interval, while Josh Wilson (also illness), Lee Hughes (groin) and Luke Higham (bruised ankle)... are doubts...

Said Smith... 'Lee Hughes has felt his groin. We’ll see, we took him off as he just felt a twinge. Hopefully he’ll be okay. Dave Hibbert as well, two games in three days may be difficult... We have got injuries, which is a major, major concern to me now... If we can come away with four points from the next two games, I’d take that, all day long'".

Also from the Shropshire Star we learn that "AFC Telford are set to open their arms to major investors, if plans to abandon a 20% cap on share ownership is passed tonight. The club will hold its AGM at the New Bucks Head stadium in Wellington...

That will lead to a fresh fundraising drive next month, and the club could find itself with new majority owners. The Bucks, who were previously owned by supporters, announced in October they planned to change their ownership model to allow external investment, but put a 20 per cent cap on the amount of shares that could be bought. In total, the Bucks sold 32 per cent of the shares on offer, generating £170,000. That will help the club to bolster its finances, and annual accounts which are also set to be approved tonight show that the Bucks made a loss of £13,065 in the year to last May.

The figures, covering the first season back in the National League North following relegation from football’s fifth tier in the 2014-15 season, show that turnover fell by 21 per cent to £691,683. In response the club slashed its wage bill by more than £103,000 to £528,583 last season...

Chairman Ian Dosser said, 'On the field we have again been much lower in the league than we had targeted and elimination from the FA Cup at the first hurdle and FA Trophy at the second hurdle, contributed to a continuing difficult financial situation. We have made further cost reductions to safeguard the future of the football club.'

He praised manager Rob Smith and his assistant Larry Chambers for helping Telford avoid relegation last season. The main fall in income stemmed from lower gate receipts, with the overall figure falling from £243,000 in 2014-15 to £125,000 last season. Season ticket revenue fell from £72,000 to £53,000, income from food and drink dropped by £34,000 to £64,000, and grants from the FA slid from £71,000 down to £11,000.

Other revenue areas including income from the club shop, lottery, raffle, car park and programmes all fell, but donations and sundry income grew by almost £70,000 to £283,000".

NEXT OPPONENTS' LAST GAME

The game turned on the dismissal of Darlington midfielder Leon Scott after just 17 minutes for a high challenge... an offence which drew mixed opinions on whether the offence only merited a yellow... But after making one comeback from a goal behind early in the second half, Quakers couldn’t manage another from two goals down, despite a spirited rally at the end of the game.

'Over the ninety minutes, we put in a really strong, workmanlike performance but, when we had somebody sent off early in the game, the lads had to work even harder for more than a good hour or so on a really tough, heavy and claggy pitch', said Gray... 'I thought we had enough chances with ten men to come away with a point, but equally you can’t afford to have men sent off for tackles like that,... For me, it was a challenge that was slightly mistimed and I think it was an easy one for the referee. To give his due, he was right on top of it. Their players got around him which happens these days. He probably got the decision right...

'The only reason why we didn’t win the game was because we didn’t have eleven men... The beauty is that we’ve got another game on Wednesday night, our first midweek game here at Blackwell Meadows'. Quakers are still in seventh place...

'The play offs aren’t out of the question... Until that’s mathematically impossible, there’s one thing for sure, we’ll be focused on the Altrincham game to get maximum points'.

Darlington skipper Kev Burgess thought... 'We never gave up with ten men, whereas when the boot was on the other foot at Harrogate earlier in the season, they gave up. We’ll fight to the end'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

However, caretaker boss John Snape insists any move will need to be 'at a realistic price' for the cash-strapped Vanarama National League North outfit. Third-from-bottom Worcester suffered a demoralising 2-0 defeat at basement side Altrincham on Saturday to leave them two points adrift of safety.

And Snape admitted they were 'short of a striker' as they failed to register a shot on target during the entire match at Moss Lane. Frontmen Lee Hughes and Colby Bishop both left the Blue and Whites earlier this month after all players were put up for transfer...

The club’s bosses could be prepared to temporarily loosen their purse strings to try to snap up a striker.... Snape said, 'We are trying to bring a forward in, but it has to be a realistic target and at a realistic price that will make us better'. Snape has backed the experienced Steven Craig to fire City to safety after he returned from a loan spell at Stafford Rangers last week. But he has scored just one goal in 11 matches and did not trouble Altrincham goalkeeper Tim Deasy at the weekend.

City have also looked to their youth system, with 17-year-old striker Callum Devlin coming off the bench to make his second appearance. But Snape added, 'We can bring some of the young lads in that probably have not played at this level and will struggle with the physicality and simple pace of the game.... But, hopefully, we can get somebody in within the next couple of weeks that gives us a goal threat'.

While City step up their search for a striker, Snape said he saw midfielder Junior English as a target-man up front. The ex-Solihull Moors stalwart formed a strike partnership with Craig in the second period after defenders James Chambers and Andy Gallinagh replaced forward Jordan Murphy and winger Chekaine Steele at half-time...

Snape explained, 'I also wanted to get more of a target at the top end of the pitch. Junior has played up there for Solihull... We looked more solid as a back four and didn’t look all at sea'".

According to NL Pitchero, "There was a familiar face back amongst Nuneaton Town`s substitutes at Boston United on Saturday as the club re-signed Kristian Scott from AFC Fylde. The deal was completed just in time for the former Leicester City youngster to be part of the squad...

'It’s just as if he’s been away on holiday', smiled Boro boss, Tommy Wright. 'He is a player that I rate highly and he knows that... He was having a tough time getting into the starting XI and wanted to go and give it a go at AFC Fylde but we’ve stayed in touch and after some persuasion and reassurances, he has decided to return. I couldn’t be happier'".

Lincolnshire Live reports that "Gainsborough Trinity boss Dave Frecklington says he will be discussing potential targets with the Blues' chairman, Richard Kane. Dave Frecklington has warned his squad he doesn't have the time to wait for performances to improve.

The Gainsborough Trinity boss, who suffered his first defeat on Saturday as the Blues went down 1-0 at home to Curzon Ashton, says changes will have to be made... The Blues are currently two points off the drop zone and with a tough trip to Nuneaton coming up on Saturday...

'Myself and Terry (assistant manager Terry Fleming) were disappointed with the first 50 minutes on Saturday,' he said. 'We learned a lot about some members of the team on Saturday. There were a few that were not at the level we need them to be. The situation we are in, we need players who will go that extra mile and run through brick walls for the club. Unfortunately, those players that are not prepared to do that will not be at the club in the future...

'I want the players to have a fair chance to show what they can do, but we just don't have the time to carry anyone. We are in a position where we have to act fast so we could see one or two coming in before the weekend...

'We need all the players to be performing at their highest level, but not enough are doing that,' added Frecklington".

The Football Economy website reports thay AFC Fylde chairman "David Haythornthwaite grew up as a Blackpool fan. Having succeeded with his business, Tangerine Holdings, which makes farming and veterinary products, he made unsuccessful attempts to buy the club from the Oystons in 1998 and 2005.

Thwarted in his efforts, he took over a former West Lancashire League park side, Kirkham & Wesham in 2008. To broaden their appeal, he renamed them AFC Fylde. They are now ten points clear at the top of the National League North and sure-fire favourites for promotion to the National League next season. They would then be just one division below Blackpool.

This season they moved into their impressive Mill Field stadium complex. It has a Mediterranean restaurant, Milano's, a conference suite, sports bar and coffee shop. Corporate boxes cost £20,000 a season. Disgruntled Blackpool supporters have been attracted and average gates have gone up from 500 to more than 1,800. 4,000 turned up on Boxing Day to fill the stadium to two-thirds of capacity.

The story does recall that of Rushden & Diamonds who achieved League One status in a largely rural area with a new stadium, only to collapse when their benefactor's money ran out.However, AFC Fylde's owner is in a more stable line of business and the plans for achieving Football League status seem to be well thought through with a strong community programme, a women's team and a pitch for a local hockey club. My only doubt would be about the mascot - Syd the Seagull."

In the Manchester Evening News comes confirmation that "Stalybridge Celtic Football Club are in talks about leaving their home of more than a century to move to a new stadium in the town centre... They have entered discussions with Tameside Council with three different sites in the town centre said to be being considered...

The council own the land on which the current 6,500 capacity ground sits, though Celtic have an extended lease on it. Any agreement would see the council provide a purpose-built new stadium, allowing them to sell the land off for development, most likely for housing...

Sources at the club say the stadium would have to be provided in advance... The new stadium could also be accompanied by a retail outlet and a function room or banqueting suite, as well as an all-weather 4G pitch, as the main pitch or alongside. The plans were revealed at a packed meeting, attended by more than 100 fans... It came about after the club held discussions with the council over building a new clubhouse.

And if the new stadium project does not materialise, club bosses say the council have assured them they will support them in renovating the current ground, including the building of a new two-storey clubhouse.

A joint statement released after the meeting said... 'We just hope, in terms of feasibility, it works. If there is a will on both sides, which I believe there is, then hopefully we can make some big announcements in late summer, early autumn'".

FA TROPHY

• Dulwich Hamlet/Macclesfield Town v Tranmere Rovers, First Leg on Saturday, March 11th 2017
• York City v Lincoln City, First Leg on Tuesday, March 14th 2017 due to Lincoln`s Emirates FA Cup tie with Arsenal)

Both second legs will be Saturday, March 18th 2017.

ALTRINCHAM FC "FIVE-YEAR PLAN"

A report from Sunday's Strategic Plan meeting at Altrincham FC will be posted here during Monday, courtesy of Press and Media Officer, John Edwards.

SUPPORTERS' TRANSPORT TO TELFORD

You can book your seat either by ringing the club during weekday office hours (0161 928-1045).

ALTY TV

RESERVES' NEXT ACTION

STRATEGIC REVIEW MEETING

• A MS Word version.
• A pdf version.
• A text version.

LADIES' GAME ON

YOUTH GAME OFF

ALTRINCHAM 2 WORCESTER CITY 0

Above: Mike Ripley captures Chris Lynch netting Alty's second goal on Saturday.

Right: Gavin Rathbone (of GR Photography)'s image shows Elliott Newby celebrating his early goal against Worcester.

Match report here

WORCESTER'S VIEW

The first goal came in spectacular fashion, after only 12 seconds. Altrincham kicked off and moved the ball left to former City winger, Micah Evans. The forward cut inside and laid off to Newby, who slotted home past Ethan Ross.

The lead was then doubled on 12 minutes by the hosts. A long free kick was sent in to the City box. Tom Sharpe rose to clear but his header landed at the feet of Chris Lynch, who smashed the volley in to the top of the net.

Throughout the afternoon, Ethan Ross was the busier of the two goalkeepers... City tried but couldn't find a route through the Altrincham back four, failing to get a shot on target".

NEXT UP: DARLINGTON 1883

The hosts were reduced to ten men after just 18 minutes when Leon Scott saw red for a lunge on Lloyd Kerry, though Town were made to wait until five minutes after the restart for the breakthrough as Ainge converted Joe Colbeck’s cross.

The lead lasted just two minutes as Stephen Thompson pulled the ten men level, before Kerry restored Town’s lead with a neat finish just under fifteen minutes from time.

Ainge’s smashed home his second of the afternoon and looked to have sealed all three points, only for Liam Hardy’s 87th minute to set up a grandstand finish...

Darlington: Wilczynski, Falkingham, Ferguson, Turnbull (Hunter 61), Burgess, Brown, Syers, Scott, Beck, Cartman (Galbraith 30), Thompson (Hardy 71) Subs not used: Bell, Gillies"

Meanwhile Darlington write that "A late fightback wasn’t enough for Quakers after playing with ten men for more than three quarters of the game.

Midfielder Leon Scott was red carded on 17 minutes for a challenge on Lloyd Kerry, but Quakers looked as if they were good for a point until Harrogate scored twice in the space of three minutes in the second half"

LADIES' MATCH REPORT

Lady Robins bow out in style

TRANMERE ROVERS 4 ALTRINCHAM 1

It’s fair to say that the cups have been unkind to Altrincham FC this season. Drawn against sides located in the leagues above them, the Robins felt they could have got something against Tranmere Rovers in the Cheshire County Women’s FA Cup.

The Birkenhead side currently occupy the bottom slot in the Premier League Northern Division 1, two leagues above Alty. In an evenly contested first half, Tranmere’s class showed in the last thirty minutes of the second half, securing a 4-1 victory at Ellesmere Port Sports Village.

It started so promisingly enough for Altrincham when Laura Kelly was put clear in the early exchanges and, with only the goalkeeper to beat, steered her effort wide.

However, following some pressure, Alty made this count with only 12 minutes on the clock. Kelly passed inside from the right for Jess Hartopp to tuck the ball home to take the lead.

Alty’s goalkeeper Lizzie Brereton pulled off two impressive saves, however, their advantage only last 5 minutes. Tranmere played long ball; one such pass found Candice Nellist beating the offside trap to smash her shot hit the inside the far post before nestling into the net to level matters.

Then Birkenhead took the lead for the first time two minutes later, Lindsey Smith directed home a far-post header from a corner.

Altrincham were by no means overawed and could have equalised before half-time, when Kate Bryan’s strike struck the crossbar.

After the break, Laura Dodds’s header was diverted wide for a corner. From the resulting flag-kick, Kyeshia Brown’s header was just off target.

Tranmere’s experience in plying their trade in higher league echelons started to show, Nellist adding a third.

Hartopp had a chance to pull one back, steering an effort across goal just wide. However, Heather Scheuber netted their fourth in the closing stages.

Megan Wright drove a shot straight at the Tranmere goalkeeper before full-time but it was the Birkenhead side that progressed through to the next round of the cup".

OLD BOYS

Meanwhile Simon Lenighan has left Warrington Town for Barnsley club Shaw Lane AFC.

FA TROPHY

• Att: 901 - Boreham Wood 0-2 Lincoln City
• Att: 2834 - Dulwich Hamlet 2-2 Macclesfield Town
• Att: 3487 - Tranmere Rovers 5-1 Barrow
• Att: 1994 - York City 1-0 Brackley Town

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The Bucks took the lead at Moor Lane just 12 minutes in, through Lee Hughes, but goals from Richie Allen and Simon Grand, in the 50th and 53rd minute respectively, saw the hosts complete the comeback.

'We talked at half-time about how important the first five or 10 minutes were, and five minutes where we didn't make the right decisions has cost us the game,' said Smith.

'The other 85 minutes I thought we were absolutely superb. I'll never have a go at the lads when they are playing like that.

'We have been applauded off there by our supporters, and they don't normally get it wrong. They have seen the effort and commitment against a side full of experienced players. I don't want the players getting down about that. We have a lot of big games coming up now. As I say every week, we are not going down with that team'".

ALTRINCHAM 2 WORCESTER CITY 0

The opener was laid on by former Worcester striker Micah Evans, whose low cross was steered home by Elliott Newby. The second goal arrived from a Heathcote freekick from which Cyrus forced a defensive error and Lynch volleyed home from close range.

Right: Alty celebrate the opening goal.

Worcester offered little in the first half but after the break, during which they made a double substitution, they were much improved for the opening fifteen minutes or so. But, with the Alty backline playing well, the visitors could not get back into the game before the hosts improved and saw the game out fairly comfortably.

Match report here

SATURDAY FIXTURES

• AFC Fylde 3-1 Tamworth (gate 1572)
• Altrincham 2-0 Worcester City (854)
• Boston United 1-3 Nuneaton Town (956)
• Brackley Town P v P FC Halifax Town
• Chorley 2-1 Alfreton Town (999)
• Darlington 1883 2-3 Harrogate Town (1742)
• Gainsborough Trinity 0-1 Curzon Ashton (462)
• Gloucester City 2-3 FC United Of Manchester (795)
• Kidderminster Harriers 2-1 Stockport County (2151)
• Salford City 2-1 AFC Telford Utd (1248)
• Stalybridge Celtic P-P Bradford Park Avenue

ALTRINCHAM v WORCESTER CITY

Alty are again without the injured Shaun Densmore, Sean Miller and Craig Hobson but pre-match are hoping for some involvement from Tom Hannigan and Andy Owens. Former City player Micah Evans faces his former club as does Simon Richman, another former Worcester player.

Worcester have Tyler Weir suspended and pre-match injury doubts over James Chambers, Andy Gallinagh, and Graham Hutchison.

LIVE MATCHES BEFORE AND AFTER ALTY'S GAME

AWAY TRAVEL UPDATE

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and hope that, as we have already been advised by some fans, people can get to the game in other ways.

We will be running a coach to the fixture against AFC Telford and a booking list and details will be available in the CSH on Saturday against Worcester City. There will also be a list to register names for the Boston trip the Saturday after, where we also hope to run transport should numbers permit".

BUZZ

"Last Saturday’s scoreless draw against Harrogate wasn’t a great game for the fans to watch but I was pleased with the way my players responded to the disappointment of the 2-1 defeat at Hyde United in the Cheshire Senior Cup on Valentine’s Day.

We are obviously short in terms of attacking options at the moment and that showed as we didn’t really create very much against Simon Weaver’s team but, defensively, we did really well and the players deserved the clean sheet and our first home league point since early September, when we drew 2-2 with Chorley.

We are twenty points adrift of staying in this league with just thirteen games to play. Whilst the situation seems hopeless, we have to keep going whilst it is technically possible to survive and something will have to give tomorrow as our opponents, Worcester City haven’t won since November and our single league victory was as long ago as early October; a draw is not of much value to either side, so both teams should be going all out for that elusive victory.

Micah Evans, who I thought did well for us against Harrogate, will get a chance to come up against his former team mates, just two weeks after leaving Worcester to join us.

On the injury front, Tom Hannigan has a 60% chance of playing, whilst Andy Owens is unlikely to be fit enough to start, but might be able to take a place on the subs' bench.

Sean Miller and Craig Hobson are still a few weeks away from being fit for selection, whilst I need to be very careful about considering Shaun Densmore again during this campaign as his progress in building up the muscle round his knee is very slow, therefore it might be next season before Shaun plays football again.

Worcester City are now in the relegation zone along with Stalybridge and ourselves and they seem to have been hit by financial issues, which meant that all of their players were made available a couple of weeks ago. Tomorrow’s game is a big opportunity for us to gain our first home league win of the season; let’s hope that we grab it!"

And in the Sale & Altrincham Messenger we learn that "Matt Doughty saluted his Altrincham side's fighting spirit after they scrapped their way to a hard-earned goalless draw with promotion-chasing Harrogate Town...

'I asked for more fight and hunger and got it 100 per cent,' said the Alty boss. 'It wasn't a great game to watch, more a war of attrition, but we matched them. It wasn't quality that enabled us to do that, it was effort. Maybe in the final third we could have done better again, but we are bottom of the league, and all I can ask of them is to give it a go, and they certainly did that.

'They gave it a right go, and I'm a proud manager after that, whereas on Tuesday I wanted to hang myself. I couldn't fault any of them, though the stand-out performances were probably from defence-minded players, which wasn't surprising because Harrogate lump it forward... We came out on top in that department, and I thought John Cyrus was fantastic.

'I had a big pop at him on Tuesday, but his reaction couldn't have been better, and he was rightly man of the match. Chris Lynch was outstanding again, and Jake Moult. Kyle Brownhill again showed the defensive midfield role we've given him suits him down to the ground, Elliot Newby did really well and Micah Evans had a brilliant first half, running their defence ragged.

'We need to build on that now by doing more in the final third'".

TODAY'S OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

Ever-present, Tyler Weir, will be on the sidelines after picking up two yellow cards in last weeks fixture. There are also question marks over the fitness of James Chambers, Andy Gallinagh, and Graham Hutchison...

Altrincham and City both sit in the relegation zone... but a win could see City move free of the drop zone, rising to 17th place, if other results go their way... with the last win coming against AFC Telford United in November... When the sides met earlier in the season, City ran out 3-0 winners".

Off the field, "The Board of Directors met earlier this week with representatives of the Supporters' Trust. The Board took the opportunity to outline to the Trust the options currently being considered by them and their reasons for doing so. The issues discussed were:-

• The need to return to play matches in the City (either in a temporary or permanent home) at the earliest possible;
• The rationalisation of the current operating costs (including the Playing Budget) and the need to bring forward break-even budgets for next (and future) seasons so as to ensure that the Clubs remaining funds are protected to help support its return to Worcester;
• The need to continue to evaluate the future affordability of football at National North level.

The Board of Directors have previously stated that they would consider the move to community ownership when the planning application for Perdiswell was due to be determined. With this now imminent both the Board of Directors and the Supporters Trust can now work together to put in place a plan of action to enable this to happen.

Both parties are committed to the long term survival of the Football Club and are wholeheartedly supportive of the Perdiswell planning application... The Trust is supportive of the reasons for the current budgetary reviews and the need to consider the future affordability of playing at the current level in the future. It is committed to working with the Board to ensure the long term viability of the Football Club...

Past differences have been put aside and more frequent meetings will be held in the future. The passionate support of its followers is one of the Clubs strengths and the long term viability and prosperity of Worcester City Football Club will depend on this. The Board and Trust are keen to unite behind the Football Club and it would urge all supporters to do likewise".

MIDWEEK OPPONENTS

We go into Saturday’s game in good form, having lost just twice in our last eight league matches. Last week, Nathan Cartman and David Syers gave us the victory that kept us four points off the playoff places, with all but two of our remaining games against clubs below us in the league".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

He scored the club's goal of the season in 2014/15 with a spectacular effort at Plymouth Argyle. He was signed on loan for Chester FC by new Stalybridge boss Steve Burr on October 2015 and has since had two spells on loan with Oxford City and a month with Barnet towards the end of last season".

Also "Stalybridge Celtic [have] announced plans to leave their historic Bower Fold home. Chairman Rob Gorski confirmed the news in a meeting and says the club have support from Tameside Council to relocate them to a site in the town centre. They both feel a move will help enhance the chances of a 'successful and healthy future' for the club...

'It all started when I met one of the council members and the conversation evolved from there', Gorski said... 'I have to say, from our side it seems very exciting. The council are all for it... If there’s a will from both sides we can make some big announcements in the later summer'".

The National League reports that "Bradford Park Avenue have signed 21-year-old midfielder Jake Hibbs on a month`s loan from league rivals FC Halifax Town. Hibbs signed for the Shaymen in 2013 after being chosen as the successful player in trials run by the club.

His reward was a first-team contract and he has since had loan spells at Droylsden, Hyde United and AFC Telford United... Hibbs signed a three-year deal with the Shaymen in May 2016".

Elsewhere, "Dave Frecklington, the new manager of Gainsborough Trinity, has returned to one of his former clubs, Lincoln United, to sign defender Michael Jacklin. An experienced player, Jacklin re-unites with Frecklington having played under him at [Lincoln]... where he has been for the past three seasons".

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER TO BLOOD LOCAL PLAYERS

• Home: P11-W8-D1-L2-F27-A13
• Away P13-W4-D3-L6-F15-A18
• All P24-W12-D4-L8-F42-A31

Howard Watts's Through the Years data for Saturday's date.

From the Worcester News we learn that "Caretaker manager John Snape has pledged to give home-grown talent a 'baptism of fire' in Worcester City’s relegation battle. And he has drawn up a 'hit list' of 'local lads' who he is looking to bring to the Vanarama National League North strugglers.

With cash-strapped City looking to cut costs, several of their current squad are likely to follow Lee Hughes, Colby Bishop and Micah Evans through the exit door... The Blue and Whites are third from bottom and two points adrift of safety after a run of 13 league matches without a win.

'If an offer is made (to a player) and people want them to leave then we will have to review that with the board,' Snape said. 'But I will be looking to bring lads from Worcester into the squad. I want to give them a baptism of fire in a relegation battle. I have got a hit list of some local lads that I can’t name because they are probably at clubs at the minute but some of them have played here before. If I get the opportunity to bring anybody in I feel will enhance the side then I will do.

'But, if local home-grown talent is available and they want to come, they will get a chance to keep the club up this year'.

Callum Devlin, 17, came off the bench to make his debut in Worcester’s 2-1 defeat to play-off chasing FC Ha lifax Town last Saturday. Sixteen-year-olds Tyreece Ruddock and Aaron Brett, also part of City’s under-18s' Midland Floodlit League side, were unused substitutes and are expected to travel to bottom club Altrincham on Saturday...

He also said he was keen to gain access to players in Heart of Worcestershire College’s football academy who work in partnership with City.

'I have not been forced (to name Ruddock, Brett and Devlin)', Snape added. 'They have come in because I want some local Worcester lads in there. There are lads at the College who are a bit older and I have been told they are either as good as or better than the ones I have brought in. I would like them to come and play. There are things stopping that from happening at the moment which I am hopefully going to adjust. I want Worcester-based players playing for City and for Worcester people to come and support them from now until the end of the season.

'They will get their chance and I hope they take it for everyone’s sake'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Urwin, who is on loan from Fleetwood Town until the end of the season, has a groin strain and is expected to not be fit for the clash at Moor Lane... The coaching staff, who are also concerned about Luke Higham having a bruised ankle, are keen to bring in an emergency replacement.

'We have picked up a couple of injuries', said assistant boss Larry Chambers. 'Matt is very, very doubtful so we need to get that sorted out. With Luke, we have players to shuffle around but the priority now is getting a goalkeeper in before the game. We had been blessed in that position with James Montgomery there earlier in the season. Matt is here until the end of the season and he has done well.

'At this stage, we don’t know whether it’s one game out with Matt, or two or three. He had tweaked it and then aggravated it against Tamworth so we are looking to bring someone in'.

Urwin has made three appearances for Telford since arriving from the Cod Army... Full-back Higham impressed during an initial one-month loan spell from Blackpool and is at the New Bucks Head until the end of the campaign.

Despite the worries over those two, Telford have good news on the fitness front as top goalscorer Josh Wilson is expected to return to the squad for the game against the Ammies. The striker has been struggling with a toe injury and missed out on the Tamworth game due to illness".

Gloucestershire Live tells us that "Evesham United have started improvements to the Jubilee Stadium ahead of next season's groundshare with Gloucester City. In order to comply with National League North and FA requirements, the Southern League Division One South and West club are installing three new turnstiles to the south of the main stand.

There is also a new terrace behind the South End goal, which will hold up to 400 supporters... Gloucester City will spend at least one year with Evesham, having now spent close to a decade groundsharing with Forest Green, Cirencester Town and current landlords Cheltenham Town following the 2007 floods."

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

Ahead of leaving City in the summer for promoted Solihull Moors, goal keeper, Nathan Vaughan wrote himself in to City folklore, saving a penalty in the 1-2 win against Coventry City...

Vaughan said 'I'm looking forward to getting back at it and putting in solid performances'".

Meanwhile the Worcester News reports that "The cost of playing at Sixways 'may be too high' for cash-strapped Worcester City, admits chairman Anthony Hampson.

However, Hampson insisted the board have to be 'realistic'... 'Nothing would be nicer than to play at the Worcester Warriors facility,' he said...

'It is a fabulous facility, but there would be a cost... At the moment that cost may be too high for the club in order for it to maintain its long term viability.'

City agreed a two-year deal to play at Bromsgrove Sporting’s Victoria Ground from the start of the season... But the Blue and Whites have been losing money... cushioned” by their exploits in the FA Cup, reaching the second round in 2014 and first round a year later.

However, Hampson admitted they were finding it 'much harder' this season and have recently put all players up for transfer...Managerless City are third from bottom, two points adrift of safety and on a run of 13 league matches without a win...

Hampson said... 'We are going hammer and tongs until the end of the season and we will be staying up if we can'".

LOCAL NEWS

In Non-League football alone there are 20 clubs as well as another six who currently play in the Football League.

Baker explains the bad points, 'The only difficulty with being so many teams in the local area is recruitment... We are one of the smaller clubs... it makes recruitment quite hard'...

It means that the club isn’t having to do as much travelling as some clubs have to do. He said, 'Yes it’s one plus point... Nothing compared to what you have in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League'...

The Shawe Lane outfit meet one of those Manchester based sides in Mossley this weekend... 'With Mossley, there is a little bit of a rivalry between the two sides, we have taken a few players from there over the last season or so'...

The club has had somewhat of an injury crisis over the last month as they have lost seven first-team players to injury or suspension, so much so Baker had to name himself and Assistant Manager Chris Shuker, the former Barnsley man who played 100 times for the Tykes for their trip down the A6."

MIDWEEK

• Gloucester City 1-3 Brackley Town (att 262)

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Challinor told his club`s official website, 'He looked really assured in what was a very young back four. To be thrown together at the last minute and go to a place like Brackley is very tough and he will only improve with experiences like that. He is a ball playing centre-half and sometimes there will be situations where he just has to put his foot through it, but that’s something he will learn as he develops'...

The Coasters have been plagued by injuries over recent weeks... Midfielder Sam Finley, who has missed the last three months through illness, made a welcome return to the squad at the weekend... 'Sam is still a long way from full fitness, but he has given everyone a lift with his enthusiasm and character in the changing room. To have him back around the place is a huge boost and to give him the last five minutes was pleasing...

'James Hardy is a massive loss for us and he may still be a little way off, as is Josh Langley, but Dom Collins has been back in training this week so the situation is slowly improving. We have less than ten weeks to go in the season and the more players we have available the better'.

Meanwhile, Challinor was also full of praise for Lincoln City after their FA Cup exploits this season and joked that his enquiry for players from the National League leaders may now be out of the window... 'Danny Cowley has done a fantastic job this season. We speak from time to time and he has asked for my opinion on players on occasions... We had actually enquired about getting a couple of players on loan but with the number of games they have coming up, I don’t think that’s very likely now!'"

Kidderminster Harriers state that "Harriers' boss John Eustace has praised young striker Andre Brown after the hit man reached double figures for the season with his goal at Chorley on Saturday.... Having made just a dozen starts for the team, his manager was understandably pleased for him.

It marks a significant milestone for the player who signed as a teenager at Aggborough in the summer... 'Andre has only just turned twenty', said the boss. 'To be a lone striker against an experienced back three like he was against Chorley, and how he has been all season, is tremendous'".

And from NL Pitchero we learn that Stalybridge Celtic "Chairman Rob Gorski has told supporters to attend a meeting on Thursday night at Bower Fold as he has an announcement to make... He says the development is 'very positive' and urged followers of the Vanarama National League North strugglers to turn up in their numbers.

Gorski wrote to fans, 'This is not some sort of “How is the weather?” type of meeting. I would very much like every single supporter to attend if possible. It will be worth their while! Please forgive the lack of an agenda and please don’t bother asking the board... as they won’t be able to answer you either. I’d thought about waiting until Wednesday to announce the meeting in order to minimise the speculation, but it’s more important to give everyone advanced warning so that they can attend. This is a VERY positive meeting, so please, no ridiculous speculation that we are permanently closing the gates'".

STRATEGIC REVIEW SUMMARY FINDINGS

"The Summary Findings from the Strategic Review recently carried out are available below...

Though the official presentation is still nearly a week away, it was felt by the Club that supporters should be given every opportunity to absorb fully the Review Team's findings in advance.

As previously stated, all supporters are cordially invited to the presentation, in the Community Sports Hall on Sunday February 26th, starting at 7pm.

It will be chaired by Ian Watmore, and the order will be as follows:

• Presentation of the Strategic Review findings by the Review team
• Q & A to cover the Review
• The Football Club Board response to the Review
• Q & A to cover the response.

The Club would like to apologise to any supporters who are unable to attend, though it is hoped a detailed account of the meeting will appear on the website".

The Summary Findings from the Strategic Review are available in...

• A MS Word version.
• A pdf version.
• A text version.

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

The 36-year-old frontman is expected to discuss his options with Snape today after his loan spell at Stafford Rangers came to an end. Worcester are light on attacking options following the departure of strikers Lee Hughes and Colby Bishop. But Craig has scored just once in 10 appearances since joining the club last summer and has struggled with injuries.

'I will be talking to Steven as his loan is up with Stafford Rangers,' Snape said. 'When he comes back, we will have a serious chat about his future and what he wants to do between now and the end of the season at the football club'.

The former Wycombe Wanderers player joined Rangers on loan last month as he looked to get games under his belt. But the Manchester-based forward failed to score in three outings and Stafford manager Neil Kitching was not impressed with his performances. 'I sent him back after Tuesday night's game,' Kitching said... 'He hadn't really had an input with goals or performances. It wasn't right keeping him around, we'll go with the lads who are fully committed to what we're trying to do'.

Forward Jordan Murphy and attacking midfielder Ebby Nelson-Addy impressed in an unfamiliar strike force in City’s 2-1 defeat to FC Halifax Town at the weekend. Snape has spoken of his desire to field home-grown talent as 16-year-old Tyreece Ruddock, Aaron Brett and Callum Devlin were named on the bench, with the latter coming on for his City debut in the final few minutes. But Worcester-born striker Joe Bates, who has been on the fringe of the first team squad, will remain on loan at Bishop’s Cleeve.

'Joe took a three-month loan as he wanted to get games and he wants to see that out', Snape added".

Also from the Worcester News, we laeran that a "Late injury 'blow' to Graham Hutchison handed Rotherham United youngster Tom Rose a starting berth against Halifax Town, according to Worcester City caretaker boss John Snape.

The 19-year-old defender, who has joined on a one-month youth loan, played the full 90 minutes... Snape said he was pleased with the debutant’s performance as he was part of a five-man midfield... after finding out centre-back Hutchison had picked up a knee problem.

'He wasn’t originally going to start the game, he was going to come on,' he said. 'He is a left-sided player and probably still needs to learn the game a little bit at this level as he is not used to it, But an injury to Graham before the start of the game led to him starting... He will be training with us in the week as well, so hopefully we can get a bit more out of him'.

Snape also confirmed experienced defender James Chambers (thigh) and winger Chekaine Steele (hamstring) were also ruled out through injury. But he is hopeful they will be back fit for Worcester’s trip to bottom club Altrincham on Saturday. 'Graham was feeling his right knee, but hopefully it is just a twinge,' he said. 'James has got a thigh strain and Chekaine was not fit to play as he has got a hamstring strain that we are monitoring. Hopefully we can address that this week so he is available for Altrincham'".

LAST OPPONENTS: HARROGATE TOWN

Boss Simon Weaver said, 'I thought we were 15-20 per cent short of energy of where we’ve been the last couple of games. It was a slippery game with everything to lose. Perhaps external factors got in some players’ mindsets - the pitch, the atmosphere was flat, there was no one here [the gate was 782, with 48 from Harrogate] and I thought that, in a negative way, affected us in the first half. I had a word at half-time and said ‘Come on, we’re here to win the game’. We showed more energy second half, but just lacked in the final third.

'You lift your own expectations when you’ve won the last two 3-0, but I’d have taken a 1-0, but unfortunately that didn’t happen'. Weaver named the same starting XI that had recorded back-to-back 3-0 wins at Boston United and at home to Worcester City...

The only shot in the opening half an hour came when Kyle Brownhill’s speculative volley flew wide of the post... Town’s best moment of the half arrived as Danny Ellis struck a sweet left-footed volley from 30 yards that forced Deasy into a fine save... Despite throwing men forward in the closing stages, Town could not find a way through and were made to settle for a point".

LADIES BOW OUT OF CUP

The Ladies' next league fixture is at home to Warrington Wolverines.

STRATEGIC REVIEW SUMMARY FINDINGS

"The Summary Findings from the Strategic Review recently carried out are available below...

Though the official presentation is still nearly a week away, it was felt by the Club that supporters should be given every opportunity to absorb fully the Review Team's findings in advance.

As previously stated, all supporters are cordially invited to the presentation, in the Community Sports Hall on Sunday February 26th, starting at 7pm.

It will be chaired by Ian Watmore, and the order will be as follows:

• Presentation of the Strategic Review findings by the Review team
• Q & A to cover the Review
• The Football Club Board response to the Review
• Q & A to cover the response.

The Club would like to apologise to any supporters who are unable to attend, though it is hoped a detailed account of the meeting will appear on the website".

The Summary Findings from the Strategic Review are available in...

• A MS Word version.
• A pdf version.
• A text version.

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

The 36-year-old frontman is expected to discuss his options with Snape today after his loan spell at Stafford Rangers came to an end. Worcester are light on attacking options following the departure of strikers Lee Hughes and Colby Bishop. But Craig has scored just once in 10 appearances since joining the club last summer and has struggled with injuries.

'I will be talking to Steven as his loan is up with Stafford Rangers,' Snape said. 'When he comes back, we will have a serious chat about his future and what he wants to do between now and the end of the season at the football club'.

The former Wycombe Wanderers player joined Rangers on loan last month as he looked to get games under his belt. But the Manchester-based forward failed to score in three outings and Stafford manager Neil Kitching was not impressed with his performances. 'I sent him back after Tuesday night's game,' Kitching said... 'He hadn't really had an input with goals or performances. It wasn't right keeping him around, we'll go with the lads who are fully committed to what we're trying to do'.

Forward Jordan Murphy and attacking midfielder Ebby Nelson-Addy impressed in an unfamiliar strike force in City’s 2-1 defeat to FC Halifax Town at the weekend. Snape has spoken of his desire to field home-grown talent as 16-year-old Tyreece Ruddock, Aaron Brett and Callum Devlin were named on the bench, with the latter coming on for his City debut in the final few minutes. But Worcester-born striker Joe Bates, who has been on the fringe of the first team squad, will remain on loan at Bishop’s Cleeve.

'Joe took a three-month loan as he wanted to get games and he wants to see that out', Snape added".

Also from the Worcester News, we laeran that a "Late injury 'blow' to Graham Hutchison handed Rotherham United youngster Tom Rose a starting berth against Halifax Town, according to Worcester City caretaker boss John Snape.

The 19-year-old defender, who has joined on a one-month youth loan, played the full 90 minutes... Snape said he was pleased with the debutant’s performance as he was part of a five-man midfield... after finding out centre-back Hutchison had picked up a knee problem.

'He wasn’t originally going to start the game, he was going to come on,' he said. 'He is a left-sided player and probably still needs to learn the game a little bit at this level as he is not used to it, But an injury to Graham before the start of the game led to him starting... He will be training with us in the week as well, so hopefully we can get a bit more out of him'.

Snape also confirmed experienced defender James Chambers (thigh) and winger Chekaine Steele (hamstring) were also ruled out through injury. But he is hopeful they will be back fit for Worcester’s trip to bottom club Altrincham on Saturday. 'Graham was feeling his right knee, but hopefully it is just a twinge,' he said. 'James has got a thigh strain and Chekaine was not fit to play as he has got a hamstring strain that we are monitoring. Hopefully we can address that this week so he is available for Altrincham'".

LAST OPPONENTS: HARROGATE TOWN

Boss Simon Weaver said, 'I thought we were 15-20 per cent short of energy of where we’ve been the last couple of games. It was a slippery game with everything to lose. Perhaps external factors got in some players’ mindsets - the pitch, the atmosphere was flat, there was no one here [the gate was 782, with 48 from Harrogate] and I thought that, in a negative way, affected us in the first half. I had a word at half-time and said ‘Come on, we’re here to win the game’. We showed more energy second half, but just lacked in the final third.

'You lift your own expectations when you’ve won the last two 3-0, but I’d have taken a 1-0, but unfortunately that didn’t happen'. Weaver named the same starting XI that had recorded back-to-back 3-0 wins at Boston United and at home to Worcester City...

The only shot in the opening half an hour came when Kyle Brownhill’s speculative volley flew wide of the post... Town’s best moment of the half arrived as Danny Ellis struck a sweet left-footed volley from 30 yards that forced Deasy into a fine save... Despite throwing men forward in the closing stages, Town could not find a way through and were made to settle for a point".

LADIES BOW OUT OF CUP

The Ladies' next league fixture is at home to Warrington Wolverines.

MONTHLY DRAW WINNERS

• £500...Ian Langford (*34)
• £75...Brian Topping (*18)
• £25...B Hassell (*214)
• Hospitality for two in the Manchester Glass Sponsors' Lounge....R Cummack (*309)
• Replica Shirt....Ruth Gallagher *(54)
• Polo shirt ....S Bond (*524)"

Full details of the Draw and how to join in are here.

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

Worcester then suffered a further set-back on 62 minutes when Tyler Weir received a second yellow card immediately after reducing the deficit from the spot. But Snape was convinced Halifax should have gone a man down when Jordan Keane was brought down in the box. 'It was a penalty, but I don’t know how the lad has stayed on. It is a refereeing decision that still baffles me,' he said. 'Tyler gets himself sent off for trying to retrieve the ball out of the goal when the goalkeeper is blocking him off. But I can’t understand how we have got one of our players sent off and three of theirs have stayed on for a handball and two blatant obstructions'.

Weir will now miss City’s trip to bottom club Altrincham on Saturday and Snape admitted it was a 'silly sending off'.

'The goalkeeper has stopped him from getting the ball out of the net, so he has given him a shove to get the ball to get us the kick-off,' Snape explained. 'His first booking was silly, but his second was even sillier which is disappointing. It was a silly sending off, but I am still amazed that we had 10 on the pitch and they had a 11. I find that absolutely astonishing.'

However, Snape refused to use it as an excuse for the defeat, which sees City drop into the relegation zone and extend their winless streak to 13 matches. He praised the 'energy' and 'desire' his side showed, but he was disappointing with the goals they conceded...

'It was a solid performance in the first half,' he said. 'We set up the side slightly differently... I think we probably had more chances and corners in the first half than we have had for a long time... There were a few little niggly things that crept into the game that maybe started to spill over at the start of the second half. They brought on the big lad, Tom Denton, who caused us some problems due to the aerial threat.

'Silly mistakes have cost us all season and we made another one as there was a mix-up in the box. We are not learning from it which is disappointing. For the second goal, I think we should have dealt with it a bit better. It was a good ball in, but they have got a 6ft 5in lad and I have got two 6ft 4in and a goalkeeper, so I am a little bit disappointed with the two goals'.

Player ratings... Worcester City (3-5-2).

6 Ross, 6 Oji, 7 Sharpe, 6 J Keane, 5 Weir, 6 Jackman, 7 English, 6 Rose, 6 C Keane, 7 Nelson-Addy – making a rare outing up front, the 24-year-old was a real livewire in attack and did not forget his defensive duties either, 7 MURPHY – was a bright spark, especially in the first half as he produced several nice touches and ran his socks off all afternoon. My man of the match. Subs: Scrivens (Jackman 77) Devlin (Murphy 86). Not used: Ruddock, Brett".

HARROGATE GAME

Alty TV has highlights from the game against Harrogate.

A dismissive Town manager, Simon Weaver, bizarrely claimed in a post-match a BBC interview that the pitch at Alty "was horrendous".

RESERVES BEATEN

YOUTHS WIN

Altrincham's "BTEC" team is away to FC Halifax Town next Wednesday.

FA CUP

The rest of the draw comprises..

• Chelsea v Manchester United
• Middlesbrough v Huddersfield/Manchester City
• Tottenham v Millwall

ALTRINCHAM 0 HARROGATE TOWN 0

Above: Nicky Clee fires at goal against Harrogate Town.

Match report here.

• Brief highlights here

HARROGATE'S VIEW

Town thought they had broken the deadlock when Danny Ellis’ 30 yard strike forced another fine save...

Simon Weaver named the same starting 11 that had recorded back to back 3-0 wins at Boston United and at home to Worcester. The contest started slowly... The only shot in the first 30 minutes came from Kyle Brownhill’s speculative volley that flew wide of the post.

Another nasty looking injury, this time to Peter Crook forced the stopper into being replaced by Chris Ellott before four minutes of added time was signalled. It was in that additional period that Town’s best moment of the half arrived as Danny Ellis struck a sweet left footed volley from 30 yards that forced Tim Deasy into a fine save...

Arguably Town’s best chance of the afternoon fell to Luke Shiels with fifteen minutes to go as the defender headed Joe Leesley’s free kick towards the feet of Deasy who scrambled clear".

SATURDAY GATES

• AFC Telford Utd 1-0 Tamworth (gate 1178)
• Altrincham 0-0 Harrogate Town (782)
• Boston United 1-2 Darlington 1883 (1243)
• Brackley Town 1-3 AFC Fylde (396)
• Chorley 2-1 Kidderminster Harriers (1242)
• Curzon Ashton 5-0 Alfreton Town (243)
• Gainsborough Trinity 1-1 Gloucester City (477)
• Nuneaton Town 1-2 Bradford Park Avenue
• Salford City 2-1 Stalybridge Celtic (1310)
• Stockport County 2-1 FC United Of Manchester (5630)
• Worcester City 1-2 FC Halifax Town (572)

NEXT OPPONENTS: WORCESTER CITY

The Board believes that a rationalisation of the current operating costs (including the Playing Budget) is necessary, as is the need to bring forward a break even budget for next season (and future seasons). The losses which the Football Club has incurred in previous seasons and is likely to incur this season need to be mitigated. The sole reason for this rationalisation is to ensure that the Club's remaining funds are protected to help support its return to Worcester.

There have been some player movements this week and there will continue to be others (both in and out) as the Management Team look to rationalise the playing squad.

This rationalisation of costs has led to speculation about the Club's ambitions for this and future seasons. Supporters should not be under any illusion about the level of funds needed to compete in the second tier of non-league football...

The Board has not applied for voluntary relegation from the National League. Its immediate ambition is to remain competitive for the remainder of this season and to retain its National North status.

A Director attended last night's training session to update the players on the current situation so that they are fully aware of the Board's intentions and ambitions...

The Board is keen to meet with the Supporters' Trust to discuss the Board's intentions and for the Supporters' Trust to outline how they propose to work with the Football Club".

Before Saturda's game Worcester City also announced a "Squad reshuffle... Rotherham United defender Tom Rose has joined The Blue And Whites on a one month Youth Loan. The Shrewsbury-born defender put pen-to-paper on a short term deal today, having previously enjoyed spells with Stocksbridge Park Steels and Sheffield FC.

Colby Bishop has moved on to Boston United... Finally, making the step up from the Worcester City youth setup are Aaron Brett, Callum Devlin and Tyreece Ruddock."

From the Halifax Courier we learn that "Goals from Matty Kosyolo and Tom Denton made it six wins out of seven for FC Halifax Town as they beat 10-man Worcester City 2-1... but the hosts shrugged off their tag as crisis club with a defiant display.

On paper, it looked no contest, with The Shaymen heading into the match unbeaten in six and the hosts without a win since November 28, but Worcester bridged that gap to make it an uncomfortable afternoon for Billy Heath and his team.

After a poor first-half, a quickfire double appeared to have handed Halifax a comfortable win, but a Tyler Weir penalty halved the deficit moments before he was sent-off and left the result in doubt until full-time.

The Worcester press pack were still trying to work out the hosts’ team line-up as the teams came out, with The Blues fielding no natural strikers after flogging their two senior forwards in an ongoing bid to cut costs, while their bench featured three 16-year-old youth team players who had only been registered for the first-team earlier in the week.

All of which was an indication of the turmoil that the club came into the match with, but Worcester’s balance sheet was probably more appealing to look at than the game in the first 20 minutes...

Worcester’s makeshift striker Jordan Murphy was the best player on the pitch in the first-half... It appeared as if the crisis surrounding Worcester had galvanised the players and was the driving force behind a hard-working performance.

Billy Heath went into the game saying his team’s quality would show through if they worked hard enough, but there was little evidence of it, with The Shaymen again struggling against a team near the foot of the table... As at Altrincham, Town’s creators-in-chief Adam Morgan and Kosylo were peripheral figures...

All of which could be forgiven if, as at Altrincham, Town somehow went on to win the game. For that, they needed a re-think, which came in the form of Denton, who replaced the ineffective Daniel Nti at half-time.

But it was a mistake from the hosts that led to Kosylo opening the scoring... It was harsh on the hosts, whose performance didn’t deserve that. But by the time Denton added a second, all Worcester’s hard-work was undone...

The game looked as good as over, but Worcester were awarded a penalty after a free-kick was launched into the Town box, and Weir converted it - just their third goal in eight games... But the defender was then shown a second yellow card for apparently slapping Town keeper Sam Johnson when trying to retrieve the ball...

Worcester: Ross, Weir, J Keane, Sharpe, C Keane, Jackman (Scrivens 78), Oji, Murphy (Devlin 86), Rose, English, Nelson-Addy. Subs not used: Ruddock, Brett."

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Salford City slipped into second spot after a 1-0 win at Moor Lane against second-bottom neighbours Stalybridge Celtic. The only goal of the game for the Ammies in front of 1,310 came from Mike Phenix 12 minutes into the second half.

FC Halifax Town are fifth after winning 2-1 against struggling and now third-bottom Worcester City at the Victoria Ground. The first half was an even affair with defences coming out on top. The second half was a completely different affair...

City were handed a lifeline in the 63rd minute as Jordan Keane was bundled over in the box and Tyler Weir stepped up and slid the spot-kick home only to be shown a second yellow card by the referee. City were pushing for the equaliser but with ten-men couldn't find a way through the Halifax backline who held on to the lead and took the points back to Yorkshire.

Stockport County, in sixth, are level on points with FC Halifax after winning the derby against FC United of Manchester at Edgeley Park. A fantastic crowd of 5,630, a record for the National League North, saw Elliot Osbourne put the Hatters in front right on the stroke of half-time. Scott Duxbury then added County`s second in the 70th minute, but Jerome Wright`s penalty reply just 4 minutes later led to a nervy final 15 minutes or so for the home fans.

Darlington 1883 are seventh, four points behind County with a game in hand after the Quakers secured their first away win since October... Tamworth dropped to eighth place, level on points with Darlington, after AFC Telford United`s eased their relegation fears with a 1-0 win at the New Buck's Head...

[Altrincham] are still twenty points behind fourth-bottom Gainsborough Trinity, who also picked up a point from a 1-1 draw against in-form Gloucester City. It was new manager Dave Frecklington`s first game in charge of Trinity and he saw Nathan Jarman give his side a 31st minute lead from the spot after a foul on Chib Chilaka. However, Sam Avery equalised...

Bradford Park Avenue won 2-1 at Nuneaton Town, who have now gone six games without a win after a terrific run after Tommy Wright`s initial appointment as manager... Boro were unable to find a leveller and have been pulled right back into the relegation mix.

As are Alfreton Town, who are now level on points with Avenue and just three above third-bottom Worcester after losing 5-0 at the Tameside Stadium to mid-table Curzon Ashton... And to make matters worse for Alfreton, they had Terry Kennedy taken to hospital with a suspected broken collarbone"

Former Gainsborough Trinity player-manager Dominic Roma has signed as a player for Scarborough Athletic.

OLD BOYS

In the match Coalville Town 1 Ashton United 3, Ryan Crowther netted for the winners. And Kyle Perry scored for Stafford Rangers as they won 3-2 against Workington. As Warrington Town beat Halesowen Town 1-0, the scorer was Daniel Hattersley.

ALTRINCHAM 0 HARROGATE TOWN 0

Neither keeper was much employed though Deasy was the busier, his most important stop being an instinctive save, with his foot, from Shiels's downward header from a Leesley freekick.

The first half saw a bad clash of heads between John Cyrus and Simon Ainge with both players resuming with bandaged heads. In addition to Ainge being unable to complete the game, Harrogate also lost keeper Crook to injury, with Elliott having to replace him from the bench.

Match report here.

There are some highlights of the game available.

ALTRINCHAM v HARROGATE TOWN: LIVE COVERAGE

Brian Flynn announces that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Saturday's game at The J.Davidson Stadium.

The commentators are Mark Simpson and Paul Salt and the match summariser is John Edwards. Coverage starts at 2.55pm & you can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at http://www.radiorobins.com/".

WATCH THE GAME AND ENJOY A PINT!

MATT AT "LOW EBB"

Leading through Elliot Newby's goal and seemingly in control of their second-round tie, Alty allowed themselves to be overrun by opponents two divisions below them and could have few complaints about the 2-1 scoreline.

With Harrogate Town heading to The J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday, Alty boss Doughty called on his players to 'at least show some fight and hunger' as they search for their first home league win of a demoralising season. 'The second half was by far the worst performance we've produced', he said.

'Chris Lynch (right) was very good and won his battle at right-back, Kyle Brownhill and Nicky Clee did okay but, apart from that, we were a disgrace. I've just said to them in there "You ain't as good as you think you are". It was hunger that won it for Hyde, not ability. If you are bottom of the Conference North and you haven't got the hunger to beat a team from two divisions below, you ain't going to make it.

'I'm a bit bemused, to be honest. Am I at my lowest ebb? Yeah, I'm quite low at the moment. I'm working at putting things right all the hours God sends, and there's no one hurting more than me when we put in a performance like we did in the second half.

'You think performances are coming and you are unlucky three or four times not to win, then that happens. We produce a performance like that and it knocks you back. We need to see a bit of fight and hunger on Saturday. That's the least you expect. They have got half-decent ability, but you can't go out there thinking you are better than you are, because you will get turned over. That was proved tonight'".

HARROGATE PREPARE FOR ALTY TRIP

He said, 'We want to keep this little run going and try to get as many points on the board as we can, as fast as we can. It is going to be a difficult pitch [?] and a tricky fixture really, because people are going to perceive that the pressure is on us and that Altrincham can just go out and play their game with freedom, but we are determined to keep our run going.

'It has been a difficult time for them, but they have been playing really well and we know they are full of a mix of National League and National League North players, so we know that they are capable that’s for sure.'

With six points currently seperating Town and the play-off positions, it would take an impressive run to break into the top five, though that is not all [that is] at stake during the final months of the season according to The Gaffer.

He added: “We have scored six goals and have not conceded any over the last two games so are pleased with the solidity more than anything... Players have got a lot riding on this last batch of games. I want as strong a squad as possible to choose from at the end of the season, for players to turn full-time professional, so I think the players have got a bit of pressure on themselves to perform. If we can accumulate the points and make it exciting until the end of the season then fantastic, but we are playing catch up still that is for sure and we have a lot of work ahead'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Much to the chagrin of supporters, however, opposition clubs in the National League North often use the four digits. The FA’s membership committee has now recommended to the FA Council that the name change should be approved and, if the alteration is approved, it would become effective from the beginning of 2017-18. Quakers' director Jonathan Jowett said, 'This is fantastic news for all of our supporters and I would like to thank the FA Membership Committee for its recommendation'".

Alty travel to Boston soon and from there the Boston Standard reports that "Adam Chapman is backing manager Adam Murray to bring the glory days back to Boston United. The new Pilgrims' arrival played under his boss at Mansfield Town and believes Murray’s attention to detail will enable the club to flourish.

When asked what attracted him to move across Lincolnshire from Gainsborough Trinity... Chapman replied, 'The manager. I think it’s a bigger club, a better club, but mainly the manager really... He’s not been able to get his stamp on this team yet, and probably won’t be able to for a while. But the hours he puts in and the detail he puts in, it’s unbelievable really, some of the stuff he comes up with'...

'If [success is] not this year I’m very confident that next year I want to be a part of something and take this club back to where it belongs,' he added.... Chapman had only just joined Trinity before Boston first made an approach for the midfielder in December. But after turning down that initial offer due to personal reasons... Chapman wasn’t going to say no a second time.

He added, 'I’ve only been here a few days but the step up in quality, I can see, individually and collectively... The transition of me going from full-time to part-time football just meant it couldn’t happen [then], as much as I wanted it to. I was disappointed but I also wanted to stay at Gainsborough, I don’t want to knock that place or football club. It was purely just timing'".

More on The Pilgrims comes from NL Pitchero, which says that "Boston United have completed the signing of striker Colby Bishop from rivals Worcester City. The 20-year-old former Notts County youngster has linked up with the Pilgrims after cancelling his contract with struggling City. He has scored 7 goals in twenty-one starts for Worcester this season... Bishop has previously appeared in National League North during a loan spell with Gloucester City."

The Football Conference reports that "Worcester City have taken young defender Tom Rose on loan from Rotherham United for the remainder of the season. Rose signed a professional contract with Rotherham in the summer of 2016... The 18-year-old most recently spent three months on loan with the World’s oldest Football Club, Sheffield FC. Earlier this season, Rose was also sent out on loan to... Stocksbridge Park Steels."

And, from the Worcester News we read that "City star Cieron Keane insists everyone needs to be 'told the truth' as concerns grow over the cash-strapped club’s immediate future. All of City’s players were put up for transfer last week... to 'protect the remaining funds'.

But Keane admitted the uncertainty and speculation surrounding City was making it 'hard' for players to 'fully focus' on matters on the pitch...

'The atmosphere is a bit strange as no one knows what’s going on and nothing has come out that is concrete,' said the 20-year-old... 'We need to pull together and get on with it but it is hard because if you are in the work place and hearing some of you may have to leave because they can’t afford you then your minds aren’t fully focused on the task in hand'...

The Blue and Whites are level on points with third-from-bottom Bradford Park Avenue after a run of 12 matches without a league win...

'Voluntary relegation [from the league] is a rumour but no one knows if it is happening or not. It has been a really enjoyable season. But with all the stuff coming out at the minute it has put a bit of a dampener on things, not knowing if we are going to stay up'...

However, Keane said... 'I think everyone needs reassuring about what is going to happen and be told the truth... They need to decide what they are going to do, as we don’t know, none of the fans know, and then put everyone’s minds at rest because, as soon as you do that, the sooner you can crack on properly... This could not have come at a worse time in the season'".

We learn from the National League that "Jim Gannon has brought Sefton Gonzales back to Edgeley Park to boost Stockport County's play-off push for the remainder of the season. The 25-year-old centre-forward spent three months with County in 2015 under previous manager Neil Young before returning to Clitheroe. He joined Chorley last summer before brief spells with Colne and, most recently, league rivals Stalybridge Celtic.

Gannon said, 'When I first saw Sefton at Clitheroe against my Northwich Victoria team he reminded me of Liam Dickinson. He had the physical profile to lead the line like a classic big centre forward but I felt he also possessed the physical skills of mobility, power and pace that could make him an effective "point" attacker in the modern three-man attack. This, added to his goalscoring record and technical ability to bring others into the game, suggested he had the potential to step up the non-League levels.

'It was no surprise to see Stockport County sign him from Clitheroe FC. But, unfortunately, the environment wasn't right for Sefton to develop as a player and make the progress I felt he could have made. I think since then Sefton hasn't quite settled long enough at a club to allow him to develop his understanding of the game at this level and build his confidence to fulfil his potential. I was impressed enough in his recent showings for Stalybridge Celtic to feel he still has something to offer a higher-placed team'...

Gonzales originally joined County in the summer of 2015, but after ten appearances and no goals under Neil Young he returned to Clitheroe. He goes straight into the squad for the visit of FC United of Manchester this weekend, alongside left-back Connor Hampson, who arrived this week from Curzon Ashton and has joined County until the end of the season. The 24-year-old has been a permanent fixture in Curzon's back line".

More on this comes from NL Pitchero which states that "Adam Morning, Sefton Gonzales, Chris Baguley and Florian da Silva have all left Stalybridge Celtic... Morning has hung up his boots, Gonzales was the subject of a seven-day approach and has elected to return to Stockport County, while both Baguley and Da Silva have been released...

Baguley is a free-scoring midfielder who came through the youth and reserve ranks at Oldham Athletic before being released in 2007. After trials with Altrincham, he joined FC United of Manchester for two seasons, with a summer spell at Mandurah City in Australia. He made seventy-three appearances and scored 25 goals for FC United and then in 2009, he joined Leigh Genesis with his brother Jamie... After leaving FC United, Baguley joined Rossendale United taking over the reigns as co-manager with his brother, before leaving in 2011 to return to playing at New Mills.

He found his goalscoring form again, and joined Ashton United, going onto make 100 appearances for the Robins in two spells, separated by a brief stint at Ramsbottom United. Last season he scored 13 goals for Ashton and had only signed for Celtic in early January, making four appearances.

French-born Da Silva joined Celtic in November from Yzeure in the French Fourth division, their top amateur league... He made ten appearances for Stalybridge, half from the bench."

Elsewhere, "Brackley Town have signed much-travelled striker Matthew Barnes-Homer. Beginning his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Barnes-Homer had spells in the United States with Rochester Raging Bulls, the beautifully-named Syracuse Salty Dogs and Virginia Beach Mariners before having his first spell with Aldershot Town in 2004.

The 31-year-old then turned out for Hednesford Town, Bromsgrove Rovers, Tividale, Willenhall Town and, briefly, Wycombe Wanderers before enjoying a successful spell at Kidderminster Harriers.... then Luton Town and his first season at Macclesfield, when he scored 23 goals in 2012/13. A powerful and versatile goal poacher, he has also played in the National League (Conference) for Forest Green Rovers and Cambridge United in a career which boasts almost 100 goals in under 300 appearances.

Capped five times by England C, he returned to Kidderminster on loan in 2015/16 and played for Farnborough before having another stint in the fourth tier of football in the USA with Wilmington Hammerheads."

HARROGATE ON SATURDAY

Harrogate Town won their most recent match, 3-0 against Worcester City which left them tenth in the league table. Their squad for that match comprised...

Peter Crook, Lewis Turner, Ben Parker, Wayne Burrell, Luke Shiels, Danny Ellis, Joe Colbeck, Lloyd Kerry, Simon Ainge, Louie Swain, Joe Leesley, Liam Agnew, Jack Emett, Andi Thanoj, Kuda Muskwe, Tom Platt.

Mike Garnett's records show the record between our two clubs...

• Home: P6-W3-D1-L2-F12-A9
• Away: P-W1-D2-L4-F9-A14
• All: P13-W4-D3-L6-F21-A23

MATCHDAY SPONSORS

OLD BOYS

In the Northwich Times, Danny Hattersley is noted as a scorer for Warrington Town in their CSC win at Witton Albion last Tuesday, whilst Sam Grimshaw played for Leek Town at Northwich Victoria in a league match.

Still in Cheshire, Joe Mwasile and Ryan Brooke were in Nantwich Town's side which won 3-1 away against 1874 Northwich this week.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Off the field, Gloucestershire Live tells us that "Gloucester City's quest for a return home could be aided by a groundshare arrangement with the area's leading rugby league team. It is understood that the Gloucestershire All Golds' president Lionel Hurst has approached the Tigers about sharing a purpose-built stadium in the city.

The All Golds' first team competes in Kingstone Press League One, the third tier of English rugby league. Owned by the University of Gloucestershire, the ambitious All Golds run a total of six teams, including two for students underneath the senior semi-professional side. Their current home is the Prince of Wales Stadium in Cheltenham, but they are known to be looking for land to build a new headquarters.

Gloucester City were forced to leave their Meadow Park ground in Hempsted in the summer of 2007 after it was badly damaged in the floods... with a move out of the county to Evesham United arranged for at least the 2017/18 season."

Bradford Park Avenue "loanee Reece Webb-Foster has returned to parent club Bradford City having been ruled out for the rest of the season. Webb-Foster injured his anterior cruciate ligament in Avenue training on Thursday... The match on Saturday was due to be the last of Webb-Foster’s month-long loan, though work was ongoing to extend the spell beyond the month.

However the 18-year-old now faces around six to nine months on the sideline and his knee will be operated on. He is contracted at City until the end of next season".

CURZON v ALTY FIXTURE CHANGE

NEXT OPPONENTS: HARROGATE TOWN

After two consecutive 3-0 victories, Town have made an encouraging start to 2017, with just one league loss from seven this calendar year...

It would take an escape of miraculous proportions for The Robins to beat the drop this year from a current position of 19 points adrift with fourteen games to play, especially from a team that have recorded just two wins from 22 in all competitions.

The relegation threatened side have bolstered their ranks in recent weeks though, with Micah Evans and Chris Lynch joining from Worcester and Salford respectively...

Only Stalybridge have scored less than the Greater Manchester outfit, who have also conceded the most goals this season, though Nicky Clee will be hoping to breach a defence he lined up alongside on five occasions this season.

Simon Ainge will need to be kept quiet in order for The Robins to improve on their defensive record, with the striker having scored seven in his last four appearances.

Ainge was on the score-sheet when the sides met back in August, though a 90th minute equaliser would go on to deny Weaver’s men all three points."

HYDE PERSPECTIVE

Hyde United report on their win over Altrincham on Tuesday...

Right: The camera of Mike Ripley captures Chris Lynch during his second debut for Altrincham, against Hyde United. .

"Hyde weathered a first half storm against Altrincham to secure a place in the Cheshire Cup semi final with a performance which underlines the development of the squad and the excellent work Darren Kelly and his staff have delivered for Hyde United.

Hyde and Altrincham were both close to full strength with the respective managers only making two changes from the squads which played on Saturday. Hyde are on a decent run with only three losses in 18 games, and Altrincham were looking to gain some confidence from a win in the Cup.

Hyde set up in a 4-2-3-1 with Aryton Bevins up front and Academy forward Oliver Ford making his full debut for the Tigers on the right wing. Laurence Bell returned to midfield along side the excellent Janni Lipka.

To say Altrincham are not having a good time at the moment would be an understatement, with a points total after 23 games in the league which is three less than the Tigers managed during our relegation season from the National League North. It was with this as a backdrop that they came to Hyde and fielded what was effectively a full strength side, hoping to gain a win and some positive momentum.

They looked the more likely in the opening half, with good possession, a physical presence and pace up front...

It was Altrincham who opened the scoring on 17 minutes when a good cross from the left was won in the air by Elliot Newby, who span off his man running into the box to collect the return pass and calmly slot home into the bottom left hand corner...

That would have been that for a pre-Darren Kelly Hyde, but the Tigers are made of stern stough [stuff] these days, and have experience, youthful optimism and leaders all over the pitch...

Hyde immediately stepped up and matched the visitors, winning their individual battles and finishing the first half without conceding again...

Hyde were in control from the start of the second half, and Altrincham could feel the change in momentum. It was clear to everyone in the ground that Altrincham are low on self belief. If any fans in the country know what that looks like it's Hyde fans...

Hyde were now enjoying the Tigers' share of possession, and creating chances as Altrincham dropped deeper. On 57 minutes Jamal Branker and Laurence Bell combined to force the ball through to Big Khamsuk, who ran into the box firing an excellent shot which was saved on the line, but he followed up to smash home the ball and equalise for the Tigers. 1-1

62 minutes and Pete Boyle replaced Oliver Ford on the right and made an almost immediate impact, picking up the ball on the half way line, cutting inside and firing a pass into the feet of Big before making a run in behind the Altrincham full back. Big lifted his head and slid the ball into Boyles path where he held off a challenge before firing home past the Altrincham keeper from 12 yards...

Alrincham showed some fight in the final 10 minutes with Hyde dropping deep to try to see the game out, but the defence held firm and Altrincham spurned their only chance of the half when the ball fell to the feet of makeshift forward Sam Heathcote, but he was unable to turn and hit the target with his shot...

This was an excellent victory for the Tigers and a demonstration of what can be achieved with dedication, planning and hard work. After three years of free fall, the momentum for the Tigers is definitely upwards.

Darren and his management team have found a mix of leadership, experience and youth which works... We look solid, but we have brave young players who are willing to run hard and take risks. The Academy has been embraced by the management and the senior players and this was highlighted on the night with both goals coming from boys we have helped produce...

"The Tigers have another home draw in the semi final of the Cheshire Senior Cup. We have been drawn at home against Crewe Alexandra who beat Stockport County...

The other semi final draw sees Nantwich Town, who beat 1874 Northwich 3-1 last night, at home to Warrington Town, who beat Witton Albion by the same score".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

He'd originally arrived at the Jakemans Stadium on a deal running until the end of the season, with an option of a further twelve months, but has been released following an 'internal matter'. Brodie had earlier scored 7 goals in nineteen appearances during his second spell at York having returned last summer".

>From the National League we learn that on Tuesday night "Chorley travelled across to Lincolnshire to take on mid-table Boston United... However, second half goals from Adam Chapman, debutant Jan Yeomans and Lewis Hilliard handed the Pilgrims all three points.

Chorley led through Jake Cottrell's 24th minute strike, but Boston came back strongly after the break with Chapman's penalty levelling proceedings 10 minutes after the restart before decisive contributions from Yeomans on 62 minutes and the impressive Hilliard 16 minutes from time.

The evening`s other game saw Brackley Town looking to end a run of six league games without a win when they travelled north to the Impact Arena to take on Alfreton Town... The first half ended lacking much in the way of quality or incident.

The second period was much more lively though, with the Northamptonshire side, whose indifferent run has seen them fall out of top five contention... go close when only a great block from Brad McGowan deflected Glen Walker`s shot on to the bar. Alex Gudger also came close to breaking the deadlock for the Saints, but the Reds held firm at the back as Russ O'Neil remains unbeaten in the league as caretaker boss" at Alfreton.

>According to the National League, "Former Blackpool and Leeds United midfielder David Norris has signed for Salford City. Thirty-five-year-old Norris had been on the books at Leatherhead earlier this season, signing for former Ipswich Town team-mate Jimmy Bullard.

Born in Stamford, he represented his home-town team before joining Boston United in 1999. He was signed by Bolton Wanderers for £50,000 in January 2000... but left the Trotters to join Plymouth on a permanent deal in 2002 without making a senior appearance.

After 219 games and 26 goals for Argyle, Norris joined Ipswich in January 2008 and he went on to make 106 appearances for the Tractor Boys. Spells with Portsmouth, Leeds United, Peterborough United, Yeovil Town and Blackpool followed before leaving the Seasiders in August, signing for the Tanners a month later".

Also from the National League we learn that "Dave Frecklington has left Spalding United to take over as manager of Gainsborough Trinity. Frecklington returned to Spalding in May 2016 as their new manager just days after leaving league rivals Lincoln United. Frecklington left Lincoln following three seasons at the club where he had also been a player... The former Lincoln City trainee has guided the Tulips to second place in the table but resigned over the weekend in order to take over at The Northolme".

Meanwhile the National League also states that "Kidderminster Harriers have confirmed that Josh Ezewele has signed a permanent contract with the club following a successful loan spell from Yeovil Town. The energetic defender made his Harriers debut in the Buildbase FA Trophy win over Ebbsfleet United...

That was one of four starts he’s gone on to mark during his loan stint from the Glovers, with the 20-year-old getting the full 90 minutes in Saturday’s 3-2 league success over Curzon Ashton. Harriers have snapped up Ezewele on a contract until the end of the current season".

HYDE UNITED 2 ALTRINCHAM 1

Loanee Elliott Newby gave Altrincham a seventeenth-minute lead but the visitors failed to build on it and, in the rest of the game, barely tested their former keeper, Russ Saunders, in the Tigers' goal. Hyde equalised after 57 minutes when they opened up the Alty defence and, after a goal-line clearance by McWilliams, Khamsuk netted the loose ball.

An incisive move, started on the right near halfway by Hyde substitute Boyle, was completed by the same player after an interchange with Khamsuk, to give Hyde a 2-1 lead midway through the second half.

Alty belatedly got forward and brought on defender Heathcote as an auxiliary forward but they were unable to force the game into extra time.

Match report here.

FA NON-LEAGUE FINALS DAY

FA press release:

"The FA’s Non-League Finals Day is returning to Wembley Stadium on Sunday 21 May 2017.

The Buildbase FA Vase and The Buildbase FA Trophy Finals will be played back-to-back, repeating the historic double-staging of the two showpiece events last season.

Nearly 50,000 people turned out at Wembley last May to see both matches and enjoy a carnival atmosphere in and around the ground.

Tickets are £25 for adults and £10 for concessions, with The FA delighted to confirm that all children will be able to enjoy the day out at Wembley for just £1.

There is also a Non-League Finals Day group rate, offering half price adult and concession tickets for groups of nine or more.

Standard and group tickets are available from TheFA.Com/Tickets or by calling 0844 826 2010.

Ticketing link here".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

And NL Pitchero adds that "Stalybridge Celtic have followed up the earlier signing of Mathias Bakare with the arrival of Rob Bourne from Trafford. Bourne began his career with Bury... and made his debut for the first-team last May against Southend United, having signed a six-month professional contract a few weeks before.

However, he was released by the Shakers last month... He subsequently Trafford".

LEAGUE MATCHES

• Alfreton Town 0-0 Brackley Town (att 308)
• Boston United 3-1 Chorley (att 807)

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

• Hyde United 2-1 Altrincham
• Nantwich Town 3-1 1874 Northwich
• Witton Albion 1-3 Warrington Town

HYDE UNITED v ALTRINCHAM LIVE COVERAGE

Brian Flynn announces that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Tuesday night's game. We will be providing a simulcast with 26nil (Hyde United's internet radio station). The commentators are Luke Edwards and Ian Wilkinson and the match summariser is Dave Stringer.

Coverage starts at 7.40pm with the game kicking off at 7.45pm. You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com.

Admission prices are:

• Adults £5
• Concessionaries £3
• Under-16s £1

DARLINGTON GAME REARRANGED

The Northern Echo reports that "Darlington dropped a place to eighth on Saturday, Tamworth taking advantage of Quakers’ inactivity to leapfrog them in the table by beating Brackley 2-1.

But other results went in Darlington’s favour. Play-off rivals Chorley and Stockport County both drew, the latter losing their fifth spot to Halifax Town who continued their good run with a 2-0 victory over Nuneaton.

Darlington, now four points off fifth spot, were without a game as their fixture with Altrincham at Blackwell Meadows was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

It was the first time Quakers have suffered a postponement this season, their match being the only game in the National League North affected by the weather, with Bishop Auckland’s home game one of the few non-league fixtures in the North-East to go ahead.

Quakers' manager Martin Gray admits that the Blackwell playing surface is not as good as Bishops’ Heritage Park, where Darlington were based for four and a half years until December, but they now share a pitch with Darlington Rugby Club.

Last summer Bishop invested close to £100,000 on the Heritage Park pitch and, speaking about Blackwell before the weekend, Gray said, 'It’s not ideal but it’s the same for the opposition too. It’s a leveller, put it that way, but we’ve just got to deal with it. Chorley last week was no better, if anything it was worse than ours, I was very disappointed with it, so let’s not make excuses. It is a leveller and hopefully people realise that. It’s not Bishop, but it was never going to be'".

NATIONWIDE UNDER-11S' TOURNAMENT

Press release:

“The National League Trust have invited all clubs to partake in a nationwide Under-11s' tournament, with the finals being played at Wembley on 14th May, at the promotion final playoffs. With that in mind, all football clubs were asked to carry out local school tournaments to find a winning team to be able to take to regional stages across the country.

Altrincham FC held a mini tournament on Friday 10th February at Timperley Sports Club. Bollin, Broadheath, St Vincent's and Stamford Park were all invited to participate, as each school had won one of our 2016 primary school football events. With 36 players, boys and girls aged between 9-11, representing the four schools, the group stage results were as follows:

• Stamford Park 1 – 1 Bollin
• St Vincent's 0 – 1 Broadheath
• Bollin 0 – 1 St Vincent's
• Broadheath 2 – 0 Stamford Park
• St Vincent's 1 – 0 Stamford Park
• Bollin 0 – 1 Broadheath

Broadheath and St Vincent's made it through to the final, with the score remaining 0 – 0 after an incredible 14 minute match and an additional 5 minutes of extra time. Taking it into penalties, St Vincent's came out on top, with an impressive 3-2 win over Broadheath.

AFC Community Co-Ordinator, Judy Henson, said of the day, “All the teams were outstanding throughout the day, but St Vincent's and Broadheath were clear worthy finalists after the displays they showed in the group stages.

We’re grateful to The National League Trust for the continued support they show us (AFC Community Sports) each year, by the grant funding we receive which allows us to carry out coaching work in schools and run events like these. We are excited to find out from the NLT about the upcoming regional stages. However, we will be working with the St Vincent's squad (left) to get them prepared in the meantime.”

AFC Community Sports have already scheduled in their 2017 Summer Schools Tournament for Tuesday 2nd May. Similar to the first event of its kind in 2016, the tournament will be held on the J.Davidson Stadium pitch at Moss Lane, for school years 3 and 4. Dates for the Winter year 5 and 6 tournament will be released after the Summer holidays.

For more information on Altrincham FC’s community work, visit the website or follow for more updates on Facebook and Twitter".

ALTY KIT DONATION

Altrincham FC Community Co-Ordinator, Judy Henson, said, 'Oldfield Brow came along to our tournament in December and I noticed they had a tired looking, old-style kit for their team. McDonald’s and The FA supply these free kits for teams just like Oldfield Brow, so we were thrilled the School decided to take us up on the offer. Oldfield Brow have recently just had a new building and astroturf pitch opened up on site, so we went along and took their football team for a coaching session to try out the new kit. There is definitely potential to get some of the sleeves cropped but, overall, the kids loved the new strip and we are pleased to be able to help'.

Altrincham FC defender, Sam Heathcote, visited the school on Friday 27th January to carry out the training session with year 6 pupils". Sam and Judy, with the Oldfield Brow players, are pictured, right.

NEXT LEAGUE OPPONENTS: HARROGATE TOWN

Now NL Pitchero reports that "Harrogate Town boss Simon Weaver believes his side are still in the hunt for the playoffs in the Vanarama National League North. The Yorkshire side sit in 9th in the league table and are 6 points behind their Yorkshire rivals Halifax Town, who occupy the final playoffs spot...

Weaver said, 'Each week we try and step up and narrow that gap between us and the top spots, which is where we all want to be. It has been some turnaround if we end up in the playoffs... The lads deserve credit for the way they bounced back these last two weeks after the Gainsborough Trinity game.'

Their latest result was a 3-0 victory over Worcester City at the weekend meaning Town have recorded back to back 3-0 victories having seen off Boston United by the same scoreline at the Jakeman stadium last week.

'I said to the lads at half that we were on it for 40 minutes, we let them play for the first five minutes in front of us,' he said. 'Maybe we were feeling our way into the game. But after that we were narrow and we reduced them to very few chances.

'Danny Ellis and Luke Shield will play a massive part in that and, at the interval, I said we look at a strong team. It gave us a good platform and that physical strength'...

'You don’t see [the] Simon Angie type up front anymore as a target man,' Weaver told the Harrogate Town YouTube account. 'He is physically aggressive and he took to it quite well, like a duck to water, with another well-taken goal... Alongside him Louis Swain, he has got back to back goals and they are starting to create a good understanding between the two of them'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Frecklington was assistant manager to Simon Clark at both Stamford and Worksop Town before going it alone as Lincoln United manager for three years. He resigned in May 2016 after leading the Whites to the play-offs, and took up the reins at Spalding. He leaves them sitting second in the Evo-Stik Division One South.

Gainsborough’s new manager is the uncle of Rotherham United star Lee Frecklington. He began life in football as an apprentice at Lincoln City and won four trophies as a player with Spalding in the 1998-99 season. His playing career included spells with Lincoln United and Grantham".

And the EvoStik League adds that "Spalding United have moved swiftly to replace Dave Frecklington with his number two Chris Rawlinson after the Tulips' boss unexpectedly stood down on Monday. Rawlinson was named as the new manager of the promotion-chasers at lunchtime in a statement announcing Frecklington's surprise departure less than a year after the former Tulips' player returned to take the helm".

Kidderminster Harriers "are pleased to confirm that Josh Ezewele has signed a permanent contract with the club following a successful loan spell from Yeovil Town... Harriers have snapped up Josh on a contract until the end of the current season".

According to the Worcester News, "Three is 'no evidence whatsoever' to say Worcester City will take voluntary relegation, according to league chiefs... But they face an almighty task to avoid the drop after the cash-strapped club decided to put all their players up for sale as they battle to stay afloat.

Speculation has been circulating City, who were thumped 3-0 at Harrogate Town on Saturday, have applied to be relegated. But Colin Peake, Media Director for the league, quashed the rumours and insisted Worcester were meeting all the 'requirements' and 'obligations' to play at that level. 'We have read the statement that Worcester put out on Friday and obviously they are cutting their cloth accordingly,' he said. 'But they are functioning OK in the league and are meeting their requirements and obligations. So as far as we are concerned they are operating.

'What happens down the line is a matter for Worcester City but, at the moment, we have not been advised anything other than what we have seen'.

Peake said Vauxhall Motors were the last club in the sixth tier to resign from the league due to financial difficulties in 2014... 'We have certainly got no evidence whatsoever that Worcester intend to do that'" added Peake.

In City’s match-day programme for their clash against Tamworth earlier this month, chairman Anthony Hampson said, 'One of the main issues with the league we are now playing in is the lack of budget caps on players' wages and the weight of money coming in from the newer clubs that have entered this league. It makes it virtually impossible to compete at a level that is going to please everybody and we will need to wake up to that fact sooner or later'.

But he added, 'The plus side to all this is our youth set up which is now the talk of the Worcestershire footballing community... It will bear fruit for the club, is professionally run and gives the club a stream of young players'...

The Worcester News has contacted the club several times to find out whether they are planning to take voluntary relegation. But none of City’s board of directors have responded".

SUPPORT ALTY'S BUILDBASE BID

In order to qualify, Clubs must apply for support towards a Building project within their ground. A winner will be selected from amongst the competition entrants to the Trophy and Vase, and will receive up to £50,000 worth of building supplies towards the selected project. Altrincham FC has put in a bid for the construction of a toilet/catering block at the away end of the J Davidson Stadium, for which we have the required planning permission, and the necessary plans prepared.

Buildbase invites fans to "support your club to get shortlisted". The company invites such support via e-mail, using the Buildbase form.

NEIL MOVES TO STALYBRIDGE

Since the end of last season Neil has been coaching for the Altrincham FC Community initiative.

Neil joined Altrincham under the management of Lee Sinnott at the beginning of June 2011, as Assistant Manager. Following the departure of Lee Sinnott, Neil became caretaker Manager from 9 March 2016 but, over the final eleven games of the season, he was unable to keep the club in the national division of the National League.

Altrincham FC thanks Neil for his services and wishes him well in his new role.

AWAY DRAW FOR YOUTH TEAM

LADIES' NEXT FIXTURES

The Ladies return to league action the following Sunday (26th) when they host Warrington Wolverines at Mersey Valley (2pm).

BEER FESTIVAL

The annual Altrincham FC Beer Festival will take place from 28 April. For details, see the adjacent poster...

LADIES' MATCH POSTPONED

NEXT GAME: HYDE UNITED

Hyde, who lie 14th in the EvoStik First Division North, played against our neighbours Trafford on Saturday and drew 1-1 at Shawe View.

Hyde United reported that "Trafford were short of a couple of their usual starting eleven, but the squad are sitting in 3rd place for a reason, and this was a tough test for the improving Hyde boys.

Hyde set up in a 3-5-2 playing against a Trafford side who looked to hit them on the break. The game was ugly. I cant admit to enjoying any part of the first 45 minutes with the ball spending a lot of the time in the air, pumped forward by Trafford and won by the three Hyde centre halfs of Burke, Miller and Coates".

With Trafford leading 1-0, "Two minutes into first-half injury time Trafford won another free kick and as the players lined up on the edge of the box, the Trafford #5 pawed at James Burke's face and the referee showed him a straight red...

On 60 minutes a lovely ball into the box was flicked on the Matty beadle and fired home from Jamal Branker. 1-1... The game was now all Hyde. Big replaced Dempsey on 65 minutes with Oliver Ford was on for Ryan Ellison on 70 minutes. Hyde created several good half chances...

Another point gained against a good side, showing the progression of the side over the past couple of months. Hyde are now moving relentlessly in the right direction, and the coming group of five games give them the chance to progress into the semi final of the Cup against Altrincham on Tuesday 14th February...

Well done to Darren and his staff as well as the excellent group of players we now have at the club".

Hyde are managed by Darren Kelly, a former Carlisle United and York City player, whose previous roles include managing Oldham Athletic and FC Halifax Town (2015). In March 2016 he was made manager at Hyde United. He left the club briefly at the end of the season but was then reappointed.

Hyde United made a signing this weekend... "Harry Coates joins The Tigers. After being released by Bradford Park Avenue Harry has signed on with the Tigers.

Harry joined the Tigers on loan from Bradford Park Avenue in October, playing his first game against Mossley at home. Having appeared 17 times, scoring 2 goals and receiving 3 MOM awards Harry returned to BPA in January, playing his last game for the Tigers away at Clitheroe on January 7th.

We now welcome Harry back to Ewen Fields".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

However, 40-year-old Lee Hughes, signed late in the week from league rivals Worcester City, capped a fine individual performance to equalise in the 57th minute.

Second-placed Kidderminster Harriers pulled two points back on the leaders, with two games in hand, but had to survive a late scare to take the points against Curzon Ashton at Aggborough. A brace from James McQuilkin, who scored in the first and 14th minutes, sandwiched by a strike from Andre Brown in the 5th minute had put the hosts well in control.

However, a poor second half nearly handed The Nash an unlikely way back. They struck twice in the last 17 minutes through Ryan Hall and sub Jordan Wright to make for a nervy end for the majority in the 1,560 crowd.

Third-placed Salford City slipped up, losing by the same scoreline at Whaddon Road against tenth-placed Gloucester City...

Chorley are fourth, but had to be content with a point from a 3-3 thriller in front of a crowd of 2,403 at Broadhurst Park. It was a real 'game of two halves' in which the home side dominated the opening 45 minutes to go in three-up... But the Magpies responded quickly with a goal from Marcus Carver in the opening minute of the second half. Sub Robbie McDaid then pulled a second back on 56 minutes, but it looked as though United had weathered the storm.

That was until a minute from the end of normal time, when FC United keeper Adriano Basso was sent-off for retaliating to a late challenge on him. Sub midfielder [ex-Alty loanee] Sam Sheridan took the gloves for the final minute of normal time and 6 added minutes. But he was unable to keep a clean sheet as [ex-Alty defender] Scott Leather grabbed an equaliser for the Magpies in the 5th minute of time added on.

That result saw FC Halifax Town moved into fifth spot, a point behind Chorley and level on points with Stockport County, who were held to a 1-1 draw at Alfreton Town. Matty Kosylo was the star of the show for the Shaymen as they ran out comfortable 2-0 winners over Nuneaton Town in front of 1,573 at The Shay...

At the Impact Arena, Stockport took the lead after 39 minutes when Danny Lloyd’s cross was met by Josh Amis who headed home. However, just as it looked as though the Hatters were going away with all three points, they conceded their first league goal away from home since November when... substitute Liam Hearn stabbed the ball home from close range...

Tamworth moved to within a point of the play-offs, thanks to a 2-1 win at The Lamb against Brackley Town, who are now eleventh, but do possess four games in hand on most of those above them. Paul Green gave the Lambs an early 4th minute lead that Reece Styche eventually doubled in the 74th minute. Styche later went from hero to villain as he saw red for retaliating to a foul by Shane Byrne, who was also dismissed.

Matt Lowe scored a consolation for the visitors 3 minutes into stoppage time but Tamworth held on for maximum points.

Following a long trip to North Yorkshire, it wasn't a good day on the field for Worcester City as Harrogate Town put three goals past them on a bitterly cold afternoon...

Managerless Gainsborough Trinity fell to a heavy 5-1 defeat at the Horsfall Stadium to third-bottom Bradford Park Avenue. With Adam Quinn in temporary charge of Trinity for the first time, they went behind on 18 minutes from the penalty spot as goalkeeper George Willis brought down Danny Boshell and was sent-off as a result. With no goalkeeper on the bench, defender Brad Beatson took over between the sticks but Nicky Wroe stepped up to fire home the spot-kick.

Trinity levelled the scores 9 minutes into the second-half as... Rothery arrived to convert and make it 1-1. Stand-in keeper Beatson then had little chance as the hosts went back in front thanks to a Boshell header. And it was soon 3-1... Avenue went on to make it a nap hand fourth with Chris Sharp on 80 minutes and Wroe with his second spot-kick after Beatson brought down Aiden Chippendale."

NL PItchero reports that "Connor Hampson has accepted an offer from Stockport County and has left rivals Curzon Ashton. The left-back, who can also play in the centre of midfield, has been a stalwart of Nash sides in recent seasons. He joined Curzon as one of manager John Flanagan's first signings in 2011...

Flanagan said, 'He has been a great servant for the club. Ever since he was 16 and played for me at Mossley AFC, he has been with me ever since. I can't thank him enough for all his efforts. The fact he missed a season with a horrific injury and came back even stronger is a true reflection of his character'".

OLD BOYS

He made the move away from the latter to join Warrington in 2015 where he was part of the title-winning team that secured promotion to the NPL for the Yellows... At 31, he will bring a lot of experience to the Uretek Stadium having amassed around 300 career appearances".

Junior Smikle has moved from Stourbridge to Rushall Olympic.

In the Hallmark Security League Sandbach United beat Charnock Richard 3-1, with one of the winners' goals coming from Boris Mellingui.

FIXTURES

• AFC Fylde 1-1 AFC Telford Utd (att 1502)
• Alfreton Town 1-1 Stockport County (993)
• Bradford Park Avenue 5-1 Gainsborough Trinity (272)
• Darlington 1883 P-P Altrincham
• FC Halifax Town 2-0 Nuneaton Town (1573)
• FC United Of Manchester 3-3 Chorley (2403)
• Gloucester City 3-2 Salford City (743)
• Harrogate Town 3-0 Worcester City (716)
• Kidderminster Harriers 3-2 Curzon Ashton (1560)
• Tamworth 2-1 Brackley Town (548)

DARLINGTON MATCH OFF

Altrincham's next match is on Tuesday (14th) at 7.45pm in the Cheshire Senior Cup away to Hyde United.

NEW SIGNING

The 23-year old six-footer from Manchester completed his move to The J.Davidson Stadium in time for tomorrow's (Saturday) league encounter at Darlington 1883 and is expected to feature in Doughty's squad.

A winger with an eye for goal, he was involved in Worcester's 3-0 win over Alty at Bromsgrove at the end of October, going on as a second-half substitute.

After working his way through the youth ranks at his first club Blackburn, Evans made his first senior appearance in a pre-season game against Accrington, in July, 2011, and made such an impression on John Coleman that the Stanley boss signed him on loan three months later.

He responded with a goal just five minutes into his debut against Bristol Rovers and scored again soon after, in a 4-0 win over Macclesfield.

Spells with Burnley, Southport and Stockport County followed, and all at The J.Davidson Stadium wish him well, as he embarks on the latest stage of his career".

PLAYER NEWS

"we competed very well with sixth placed Halifax last week and I am sure that we will be able to do the same tomorrow.

On Thursday night, we signed Chris Lynch, who is a player that I know from when we both played at Hyde and he’s also played for Alty previously under Lee Sinnott, in the season before I returned as a player in 2012. Chris has been a big part of the well documented recent rise of Salford City and was Captain of the team that won promotion to the Vanarama National League North last April. He moved to Australia in the summer, but recently returned to Salford...

Four or five Vanarama National League North clubs, including Salford and us, have been trying to sign Chris, so I was really pleased that he has opted to join us. He’s a tough player with strong leadership abilities and really fits the bill for what we need at Alty just now and he will make his debut at Darlington tomorrow.

Andy Owens will miss tomorrow’s game with an ankle injury that forced him off in the first half of what was a very unfortunate 1-0 defeat against Halifax last Saturday. Tom Hannigan might be OK to be on the bench but after the way that John Cyrus and Jake Moult played last Saturday, I am very confident that they can perform similarly against Martin Gray’s team at their new ground at Blackwell Meadow.

Alan Goodall is available after coming through his game with the reserves last week and Sean Miller is now off his crutches and has started his road to recovery from his ankle ligaments injury.

Shaun Densmore and Craig Hobson will not be travelling with us, as I am sending them on separate scouting missions to watch future opponents. The performances are improving but we still desperately need that elusive win that will undoubtedly put some confidence and belief back in the players".

HALIFAX HIGHLIGHTS

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Hughes explained to BBC Shropshire’s Nick Southall that it was due to financial reasons at the club was his reason [sic] for departing for the Bucks. Hughes said, 'I had a great time there and I met some great people and scored quite a few goals for them. When I found out the club was in financial difficulty and they have got to get rid of a lot of players and I was one of them. I decided to speak to them about it and they were happy for me to go.'

Telford side [sic] will be Hughes['s] 12th club in a career that has seen him go from non-League football into the Football League before returning to where he started... He said, 'I’ve scored a few goals against Telford in my career and I’ve enjoyed playing at their stadium'...

Hughes also believes he has a few years left in him after scoring 14 goals in 20 games this season for the Blues.

Meanwhile his new boss Rob Smith added, 'We became aware of Lee’s contract at Worcester and made a tentative enquiry and were pleasantly surprised when he became available. I’m not aware if Worcester has some financial issues at the moment. But contact was made and it was done pretty quickly, as there were about five other clubs who were in for him. In my opinion, he is the best striker around this level after Danny Rowe and to get someone of his standard is virtually impossible and it was a too good of an opportunity to have turned down and if we hadn’t of [sic] got him then five others would have.” And that's that.

Relating to Worcester's plight, NL Pitchero reports on a "Statement from the Worcester City board of directors...

Following the recent resignation of Carl Heeley as Manager, the Board has commenced the process for seeking a successor to take on the management of the First Team. Alongside this, the Board is also continuing to review all aspects of the Football Club’s operation. At the forefront of the Board’s consideration is the future viability of Worcester City Football Club and bringing the Club back to Worcester. This review started before Carl’s departure... and it was not a factor in his resignation.

For the last four seasons the Football Club has been playing away from its home city and at the second tier of non-league football. Not only are there significant costs attached to this but the opportunities for generating income are significantly less than they would be if the Football Club were playing in Worcester. During this period the Football Club has incurred losses, mitigated by successful cup runs, with a further significant loss to be made this year.

In order to safeguard the future of the Football Club going forward it must look at the following matters:-

• 1. The need to return to play matches in the City (either in a temporary or permanent home) at the earliest possible opportunity by working closely with the City Council and other partners;
• 2. A rationalisation of the current operating costs (including the playing budget) in order to mitigate the losses which the Football Club has incurred in previous seasons and this season;
• 3. Bringing forward a break-even budget for next season (and future seasons) so as to protect the remaining funds the Football Club still has available; and
• 4. The appointment of a First Team Manager/Coach who the Board believes is best placed to take the Football Club forward in the long term, in light of the above matters.

The Board is aware of speculation both in the media and amongst supporters as to the future direction of the Football Club. The Board will not comment on speculation, nor will it comment on any ongoing discussions in advance of those discussions being completed. It will, however, reassure shareholders and supporters that any future action it decides to take will be with the sole objective of ensuring that Worcester City Football Club continues to be viable in the future. As and when updates can be provided the Board will ensure that such information is released through its official channels."

From another exiled club, we learn that "Gloucester City could be about to ditch their 'Tigers' nickname and revert back to playing in red and white. The club’s owner Eamonn McGurk told fans in a Q&A that he would like to see the changes made in the near future.

'I don’t understand why Gloucester play in yellow and black', he said. 'Why did they sell their colours and basically sell themselves down the river? A whole generation has been brought up with a false identity of what the club is and I can’t understand it. I am also not a fan of the 'Tigers' nickname. I don’t like the club’s logo and I don’t like the story of how we got to yellow and black. I would like a return to red and white.'

McGurk says the ambitions he has for the club are 'endless'...

Fans are unhappy about City signing a groundshare deal with Evesham United; it will be the first time the Vanarama National League North club have played outside the borough [sic].

Manager Tim Harris said that he understands the annoyance but says... 'There was no other choice. I think we will lose some of our supporter based but I would like to think most will stick with the team and travel. The pitch will be better than most expect and they will make us very welcome, I’m certain of that'"

Closer to home, "Steve Burr has spoken about the challenge facing him on his return to Stalybridge Celtic... Celtic are 12 points away from safety...

Burr, their new manager... refuses to accept they are already down... 'They’ve not been winning matches so there’s a bit of doom and gloom about the place, obviously, but it’s a good club with a lot of good people there. Rob Gorski’s been there for the duration of the time since he took me there in the first place. I really did enjoy working with him. Like all chairmen he has an opinion, but I know how much he wants success.

'We need to start winning games and hopefully I can turn the defeats into wins; the sooner the better because we have to climb that table quickly... Burr starts his latest spell in charge with a cup game against Salford City on Tuesday. His first league game is against the same opposition".

Elsewhere there are some new loan transactions; "Alfreton Town have signed 23-year-old defender or midfielder Jordan Richards on a month's loan from Hartlepool United... AFC Fylde have taken defender Dan Jones on a month's loan from Grimsby Town... [and] Nuneaton Town have taken 20-year-old Devon Kelly-Evans on a month's loan from neighbours Coventry City."

NEXT OPPONENTS: DARLINGTON 1883

Quakers won the Northern Premier League title at the first attempt last season and, after a fine start to the current campaign, were second in the table early in November, but a disappointing run of results has seen Darlington drop to seventh. However, that Quakers are competing for a play-off place at all is commendable, believes Thompson, who recently made his 200th appearance for Darlington having joined in September 2012 from Durham City.

'We’ve done well the last few years and we weren’t expected to be anywhere near where we are in the table,' said Thompson, whose team is three points outside the play-off places and on Saturday take on bottom-of-the-table Altrincham at Blackwell Meadows. 'We maybe overachieved at the beginning of the season, when we were second, but we’ve proved that we can do it. If someone had said at the start of the season that, in the New Year, we’d be seventh we’d have taken that. We’re in with a shout of the play-offs and that’s a big plus I think'".

CHRIS LYNCH SIGNS

Despite some reports yesterday that Lynch had joined Alty for a second time, the deal was only completed earlier this evening (Thursday). As with all transfers, the club will only announce a move once the player concerned has signed the relevant forms.

This has now been done, and Lynch trained with his new team-mates this evening, in the hope of convincing manager Matt Doughty he is ready to play a part against promotion-chasing Darlington.

A tough-tackling defender, he was utilised as a right-back and also as a centre-back in his previous spell in Alty colours, the latter being a position in which he was often used by Salford. He can also play as a midfield anchor man.

CHRIS LYNCH BACKGROUND

Chris Lynch (d.o.b. 29.12.1984) originally joined Alty on 3 June 2011, following Alty's then new assistant manager Neil Tolson, from Hyde FC. He had made his debut for the Tameside club in 2004, having earlier been at Wigan Athletic and he arrived at Moss Lane after 249 starts and 38 sub appearances for The Tigers, for whom he had been a virtual ever-present for the previous three seasons.

He ended the 2011-12 season playing at centre-back and looked to be set for another season at Moss Lane. But, in July 2012 he opted for a change of career and gave up his painting and decorating work to join Ashton United where he was offered both a playing role and a coaching job with Ashton manager Danny Johnson's community football coaching company. His Altrincham career appearances are 32(+6) appearances and two goals.

Prior to the above official confirmation, NL Pitchero had reported that "Following a spell in Australia defender Chris Lynch returned to Salford City last month and was in the starting line-up for our 4-0 win over Nuneaton Town. He has now decided to move on to another of his former clubs, National League North Altrincham.

Few players have committed more to the Salford City cause than former skipper Lynchy who has clocked up in excess of 100 appearances since moving to Moor Lane from Ashton United. We wish him the best of fortune for his time with Altrincham".

Lynch's last game for the Ammies was in their 4-0 home win in January over Nuneaton Town, which the club described Lynch as giving "a typical grafting performance, despite being thrown into an unaccustomed position. We would, of course, expect nothing less". He was subbed on 69 minutes.

CHESHIRE NEWS

Derek steps down with immediate effect while Lynn and Rob Johnston, board member for ground maintenance, will continue in their roles until the end the season.

All three are founder board members and their departures will leave a huge chasm at the fans-owned club, in terms of ability and commitment."

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

• Crewe A. 2 Stockport C. 1, att.325

OLD FOES

Officials at the fan-run EvoStik NPL First Division South club say members have voted to groundshare with Rushden & Higham United, a whopping 94 percent choosing Hayden Road over options to play at either Kempston Rovers or Northampton Sileby Rangers.

The phoenix club, who've played at Wellingborough Town since 2012 after groundsharing at Raunds Town in 2011 following their formation a year earlier, now face a race against time to bring the United Counties League Division One club's home up to ground-grading stands needed to play in the NPL ahead of a March 31 deadline.

With Diamonds unsure of having a Grade D certificate in place in time, a temporary move to Hillgrounds, home of Kempston Rovers, is still being discussed along with the imminent launch [of] a fundraising campaign to assist with the costs of coming home.

AFC Rushden & Diamonds chairman Ralph Burditt said 'To have the opportunity to play within one of the towns which the club represents is fantastic, although there is obviously a lot of work to do in order to prepare Hayden Road for the new season'...

The Diamonds starting polling their fans on where to play in January after receiving notice that they would be evicted from their current base at Wellingborough Town's Dog & Duck ground at the end of this season".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Hughes’s past clubs include West Bromwich Albion, Coventry, Oldham, Port Vale and Kidderminster Harriers... Interest in the 40-year-old has been shown by City`s league rivals AFC Telford United and one other club."

Off the field the Worcester News adds that "Former fans’ favourite Mark Owen has withdrawn his application to be Worcester City manager due to 'personal reasons'.

Owen had expressed his interest in the managerial vacancy following the resignation of Carl Heeley, insisting he could help bring 'stability' to the cash-strapped and exiled club.

Droitwich Spa’s joint-boss had also received the backing of Worcester City Supporters’ Trust director Rich Widdowson for the top job. However, the 39-year-old revealed there had been 'Developments over the last week or so', which led him to withdraw due to 'personal reasons'. Speaking to the Worcester News last week, the ex-City striker said he could [put] 'the fire back in the belly' of the strugglers... My heart and my mind are in it and I only want what’s best for City'.

Worcester-based Owen runs a football academy, located at the Heart of Worcestershire College, which has produced City players Dean Waldron and Jamie Smith. 'The club need stability,' he added. 'They need to plan long term, not just short term, and that includes working with more local players... It is just about getting it to breathe again and having that fire back in its belly instead of the negativity which is surrounding the club'".

DARLINGTON GAME

• Adults £12
• Concessionaries £8
• Under-16s £4

TASC is arranging supporters' transport to Darlington next Saturday (11th) for Altrincham's game against The Quakers.

Details of times and fares are here. You can book by ringing the club during weekday office hours on 0161 928-1045.

Altrincham supporters should note that there is no seating provision for away supporters at Darlington's Blackwell Meadows stadium.

EUROPA LEAGUE AUCTION

Hospitality details are here.

We are very grateful to the Altrincham supporter who has given us the opportunity to auction this great footballing experience.

The value of this event is over £150 and to make a bid, please email Geoff Morris.

The closing date for bids is Monday February 13th 2017 @ 6pm.

The money raised from the winning bids will be used to purchase equipment for Alty TV, therefore the winner can enjoy their prize and know that their money is going towards helping Alty TV maintain and improve its exceptionally high service standards".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE AWARDS

VANARAMA SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

January has been a stand out month in the world of football with the exploits of two Vanarama National clubs in the Emirates FA Cup taking up many column inches in the written press together with radio and television headlines. With historic records almost tumbling in every match played and a resurgence in the magic of the competition due to the success of both Lincoln City and Sutton United, the League sponsors wish to recognise the tremendous efforts of everyone connected and involved with both clubs. Whilst of course the plaudits will rightly focus on their respective managers and players basking in the limelight of the worlds press, the achievements in reaching the 5th Round along with the gratitude of loyal fans, it should be made crystal clear that everyone in both clubs have had to step up and match not just the opposition on the field but also the gallant effort of many staff associated from top to bottom with all the extra and demanding work which has had to be undertaken to make each match - home or away - run smoothly. Recognising both clubs with these special awards is a tangible reminder that those efforts are duly honoured. Congratulations and well done to everyone.

VANARAMA NATIONAL MANAGER

John Still - Dagenham & Redbridge

Media wise the Vanarama National has been taking a back seat due to the headlines generated by the FA Cup in January. Nevertheless one seasoned campaigner has been meticulously planning to win crucial games to maintain his clubs challenge for automatic promotion. Though due to the weather only able to play three matches, the Daggers won all three without conceding a goal and with the most important of those the away victory at Tranmere Rovers, which certainly ensures they remain a serious threat to the other clubs around them. John Still knows what is needed to mould such a resilient squad and on a limited budget. Ignore him at your peril.

VANARAMA NATIONAL PLAYER

John Rooney - Wrexham

The Red Dragons have during the month maintained steady progress on the field and moved up the table after early season setbacks. If they can maintain the consistent form they have produced in the Vanarama National in January, they could still be a late arrival on the promotion scene for an outside Play Off spot. The ability to keep going to the final whistle must be part of the mentality which has to exist to snatch a vital draw or that much needed win when minds and energy levels are under stress and strains of competitive football. 26 yr old John has kept focused since his summer move to North Wales and not only scored a number of key goals, importantly he has driven his team mates on to making them believe a challenge can be launched. With three months left in the season much will be determined by attitude, passion and a desire to succeed against the odds.

VANARAMA NORTH MANAGER

Billy Heath - FC Halifax Town

With the weather and the FA Trophy causing a number of differing combinations in games played and no one club securing a 100% record in the month, it was a close run thing for the monthly award in the Vanarama North. Several managers have done well and there have been some notable results across the whole of the division. None made people sit up more and take notice than the Shaymen win over Salford City, who themselves are on a strong run in the Play Off positions. Billy was brought in to try and take the West Yorkshire club back into the National division and January has proved that he can motivate his players to fulfill that desire. Can they push on?

VANARAMA NORTH PLAYER

Michael Nottingham - Salford City

Salford City have been making quite a statement of late and seeing the ground improvements taking place at Moor Lane must be a constant daily reminder to the players of the ambitions at the heart of the club. For the investment off the field to be matched on the field there must be a consistent approach to each match. The Reds, in their efforts to take another step up, have had to meet many challenges in the Vanarama North and with a player amongst them being a winner of that very title last season this is also a constant reminder of what levels must be attained. Michael has set a personal benchmark during January to drive the players onto making the dream a reality come the end of the season. Very much similar to the drive he demonstrates from his defensive position in matches. What a 'double' that would be for him come May for the 27 yr old.

VANARAMA SOUTH MANAGER

Daryl McMahon - Ebbsfleet United

Whilst The Fleet like others in the Vanarama South current Play Offs positions are all striving to catch leaders Maidenhead United, if any club is to claw back the deficit then the Kent club does have the infrastructure in place on and off the field to make it. January has thrown up a number of difficult games and Daryl this time around knows that his squad must hit the ground every month if the target of promotion is to be achieved come season end. A 100% league record in the month has been a very creditable platform on which to build towards the dream and he has generated belief in his players to be part of that. Success is a team game.

VANARAMA SOUTH PLAYER

Ian Herring - Hungerford Town

In their first season at this level The Crusaders have surprised many with a number of solid team performances and they are certainly relishing the challenge of the Vanarama South which has taken the Berkshire outfit into and around the Play Off spots. Everyone knows at Bulpit Lane that their first priority is off the field to meet grading standards but if they are going to meet those deadlines then creating a successful playing environment is in part likely to lead to new financial investment. Making headlines attracts attention. Leadership is a main reason why they have maintained a strong position and having an experienced skipper is a key to their current success. Ian, just a few days short of his 33rd birthday, has been in the game for a number of years and is often on hand with his robust style of individual midfield play or to have a calming influence on and off the field when it matters. The player award this month recognises his personal efforts. Well done.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Everyone will remember the exciting football that we played under Steve and his reputation of playing that style of football has not changed. He took over Southport earlier this season when they were bottom of the Conference Premier and their fans claim that they were playing their best football in more than a decade. Steve also lifted them out of the relegation places. I cannot comment on internal affairs elsewhere, but we are very fortunate to have him back at Stalybridge Celtic.

Steve commented 'I can't wait to get started and try to keep us up. Long term, the aim is to start winning matches and get back to pushing for honours. Hard work, determination and everyone pushing in the same direction will bring us success. I very much look forward to working back at a club that I have very fond memories of'.

Rob Gorski said "I'm absolutely thrilled that we have secured Steve's services. He is a Conference Premier manager and it's only his love of Celtic that brought him back here. Our objective short term is to very much stay in this league. We have some very winnable games in the next 6 to 8 matches. If we do go down, then we will be giving Steve the budget to get us back up at the first time of asking. We are not prepared to go backwards. We have some fabulous longer term plans that we are working on, but in the short term, we need to either remain in this league, or return immediately next season.

'I would like to put on record my thanks to both Steve and Paul. They had the toughest of times in that a lot of the previous squad went on to play two leagues below, yet they did a brilliant job of upgrading the quality of the squad. They also had the worst list of injuries in many a year and still managed to increase the attractiveness of the football and the commitment of the players'".

Other news from the Bower Fold is that "Aidan Chippendale will this week leave us to join Bradford Park Avenue. They submitted seven-days' notice of approach for him. He lives 10 minutes from their ground, and they made him an offer he could not refuse... For the record Chippy made 95 appearances for us and scored 15 goals."

And the National League adds that "Defender Fraser Horsfall has extended his loan from Huddersfield Town with Stalybridge Celtic until March 12th."

Meanwhile, NL Pitchero states that "Nuneaton Town have completed the signing of Ashley Chambers on loan from Grimsby Town for the remainder of the season. The 26-year-old, who is able to play up front or out on the wing, started his career at Leicester City...

After loan spells at Wycombe Wanderers and Grimsby, he made the permanent switch to York City in 2010 having had a successful time on loan with The Minstermen... His next port of call was Cambridge United, from where he was loaned out to Dagenham & Redbridge... before linking up with Grimsby Town at the start of the current campaign...

Said Boro boss Tommy Wright... 'I came through the ranks with him at Leicester City. He’s four years younger than me but was always prolific during his time at the club'".

NW NEWS

The former Premier League striker at Crystal Palace, who also played at Blackpool, Bury, Carlisle, Northampton, Wrexham and Stockport County...said, 'I've got a fantastic opportunity at a well-run club that I have known for many years... I am really looking forward to the challenge. I've been in this situation before taking over a club and I expect to succeed. Yes, lots of hard work ahead on and off the pitch with fifteen games to go. It is a big job. I have no fears and expect us to be moving forward'...

Preece, 49, managed Bury from 1999 to 2003 and then took charge of Worcester City from 2005 to 2007, Northwich Victoria from 2009 to 2012 and then Airbus UK Broughton from 2012 until last August...

The 49-year-old impressed the Board at interview with chairman Charlie Clapham saying, 'I know Andy will make a real impact. He has experience at all levels... This is an appointment with more than this season in mind. Andy knows we need immediate improved performances and of course results to safeguard our Vanarama National League status'".

LADIES' FRIENDLY FIXTURE

If you can make the trip over to support the girls we would love to see you there".

TUESDAY FIXTURE

• Stalybridge Celtic P-P Kidderminster Harriers, waterlogged pitch.

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Three-nil up with ten minutes to go, it hardly seems possible, but Curzon incredibly conspired to lose. Nine losses, eight wins, eight draws. It is fair to say that Curzon had not been on fire in the lead up to their first ever televised game...

Thirty-five seconds after the first whistle was blown,... Liverpool prospect Adam Morgan scored a wonder goal from 25 yards. Curzon’s chief executive, Natalie Atkinson, had not even reached her seat. 'I was actually upstairs in our conference room facility,' Atkinson says...

'That last 10 minutes... Your stomach, it just falls out of you... I had my family there because my brother plays for the team and I remember looking over at my brother when it had gone to 3-3. They had given 150% and I saw my brother put his hands on his head... All of them had given everything'..

It took John Flanagan and the management team a couple of weeks to bring the players back around after such an emotionally exhausting cup tie. But they did pull them back. And now the club and its players are focused on their target to finish in the top half of the National League North.

Atkinson has ambitious plans for the club she has worked for since May. 'I do not want our club to be saying, we have just got to get above relegation. I don’t want our club to be like that. We are not a small club anymore, we are a big club. The FA Cup game proved that. The players know that'. For Atkinson, the next target for Curzon Ashton is to join several other non-league clubs in going full-time within the next five years...

'If you look at one of the players now, he is going to be on £25-26k a year, plus obviously, his wage through playing at Curzon. That is one player, £30k a year. You’ve got to find that 12, 13 times for the squad. That is a lot of money and that will only come from my role in terms of exposing the club, talking to sponsors, bringing in more financial investment. That is our biggest challenge as a club.'

Natalie reports that there are 140,000 people in the Tameside area. Six other clubs are at a similar level to her team. All in search of the same fans. Curzon Ashton needs to do something differently to stand out with the relatively small crowd... Increasing the number of sponsors that the club have, and introducing a new match-day experience package for businesses, all make Curzon Ashton an enticing proposition... For John Flanagan and his squad there is always next season. For Natalie Atkinson, this is just a stepping stone for bigger and better things for not-so little old Curzon Ashton."

The National League shows that Curzon Ashton are third from bottom in terms of league attendances this season...

• 20th: Curzon Ashton, played 14 highest gate 964, lowest gate 181, average 425
• 21st: Brackley Town 13 - 642 - 272 - 419
• 22nd: Bradford PA 14 - 611 - 230 - 359

• 9th: Altrincham 14 - 2490 - 756 - 1308

NL Pitchero says that "Gloucester City have signed 23-year-old midfielder Jake Slocombe from neighbours Yate Town. Slocombe is a former Mangotsfield United player who spent a couple of years in America with the Thomas University Night Hawks. He trialled with Bristol Rovers in the summer of 2015, having been with them as a futsal scholar in his early days. He was in his second spell with Yate before making the step up with the Tigers."

Elsewhere, "Nuneaton Town have completed the signing of talented goalkeeper Tyrell Belford on a deal until the summer of 2018. The 22-year-old, who was born in Nuneaton, started his career as a junior at Coventry City before moving into Liverpool’s academy where he continued to flourish and earned England recognition at under-16 and 17 level. He joined Swindon Town on a two-year deal in the summer of 2013 and played twenty-two times for the Robins as he got his first taste of senior action before linking up with Southport on a season-long loan at the start of the current campaign.

However, a change of management at The Sandgrounders saw him return to the County Ground before being released and joining Oxford City, where he has put in some impressive displays over the past couple of months.

'I am delighted to be able to bring in Ty,' said Boro boss, Tommy Wright. 'He is a goalkeeper that I have been chasing for a while and, when a move elsewhere broke down recently, I had to get in there quickly to get the deal done. We have secured his services until the end of next season, which is great news for us. He is a very confident and talented goalkeeper who is relishing the prospect of playing for his home-town club'".

BILL WATERSON JOINS THE BOARD

IT specialist Waterson, who grew up watching Jack Swindells smash one Alty goalscoring record after another and underlined the depth of his feeling for the club with a £10,000 donation last year, joins the board less than a week after the resignation of vice-chairman Andrew Shaw.

Reflecting on the task ahead, and his eagerness to help turnaround the club's fortunes after a traumatic 12 months, he said, 'The board and I have been in communication for some time about how I could play a role in taking the club forward, and we agreed it had to fit within the context of the strategic review. The step has been taken now, shortly before the findings of the review are made public, to demonstrate that stuff is happening behind the scenes that is joined up and that has the future direction of the club very much at heart.

'One thing is for sure - no one can call me a glory hunter. I'm joining with the club in the midst of the biggest battle it has faced for many, many years, but my intention is to bring strength and additional capability to the board to make sure we are well equipped to meet the challenge head-on.

'There's a lot to do, but this club means so much to me, I want to try and make things better. For me, this is a lifetime ambition realised, but I'm not looking at it like that. It's not mission accomplished, it's just the start. We are starting out on a fight to bring the club back to where it needs to be, and we have to ensure every action the board takes is designed to increase the likelihood of success for the first team out on the pitch.

'We have to build an environment that maximises the chances of success for the first team, because that is the main focus for all of us.

'After a lifetime of supporting this club, I now feel I can begin to contribute positively towards giving something back and helping create a team the next generation of Altrincham fans can follow with pride.

'Precisely how that will work, I hope, will become apparent as we go along but, in my professional life, companies I have worked for use me to turn around internal businesses that are failing by repairing relationships with their customers. To a large extent, that's what we have to do here, with supporters who have been absolutely magnificent and have shown incredible patience in the face of not much return. We all need to up our game to ensure that patience doesn't run out.

'I was delighted to be able to make a donation to the club last year and, having done it, I have since taken the next step and become a major shareholder. I would encourage fans to consider something similar and look into buying shares. The club have some that are available for purchase.'

Chairman Grahame Rowley welcomed the new appointment and revealed that a date is about to be announced for a presentation of the strategic review to supporters.

'We have been actively looking to strengthen the board, and, after much discussion, Bill decided to join us, which is great news,' he said. 'We are still looking for other people to join what will be a new, forward-looking board. On the strategic review, details will be announced shortly of a presentation to supporters in the Community Sports Hall.'"

HALIFAX BOSS ON SATURDAY'S GAME

He said, 'It was a very frustrating afternoon. But a win’s a win. It was massively important that we followed up the results we’ve been getting. Everybody expected us to come here and win, and in the end we got there. There wasn’t a lot of football played, there were lots of wrong choices, but we got the win, and that’s the main thing. We’ve played a lot better and won, we’ve played a lot better and lost this season, but we’ve got the three points'.

Town conceded a penalty after just eight minutes when returning defender Matty Brown brought down Andrew Owens in the box... 'We were forced to throw Matty Brown in at the deep end', Heath said. 'Yes, he’s been training for virtually a month, but he’s played 45 minutes of football, it’s not enough but we had to make a choice. He looked a bit rusty but I thought from that penalty decision, (and it was a penalty, Matty held his hands up at half-time), onwards, he was outstanding...

'It was a great save from Sam, he stood up big, he’s not gone to ground early. People might criticise the boy’s penalty but he’s kept it out'.

Heath felt Town should have had a penalty of their own though. 'There were two incidents with Richard Peniket,' Heath said. “He’s gone through on the other side of the box and, for me, the keeper or the defender don’t get anything of the ball, and take Richard out. Then inside the area, Richard’s held the ball up, moved off the boy, gone to cut inside and the boy’s got nothing of the football. For me it looked an easy decision. I’m convinced it was a penalty, I might be wrong when I see it back.'

Heath praised the performance of match-winner King, who produced another all-action display... 'We brought Liam in for exactly what he’s doing now. He looks mobile again, he looks full of energy, he looks fit again and he will score you goals. He’s had his critics, and he’s answering them now. Sometimes when you come to a football club, it takes time to settle in. Liam had his back problem, and it was never going to help with him missing a big chunk of pre-season and then he played when he maybe shouldn’t have done, but that’s Liam, he wants to play'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The top scorer for Telford, who are now only two points above the National League North drop zone, is Josh Wilson with eight in all competitions.

'We will look this week to try and bring a striker in,' said Chambers... 'But of all the positions in a team, they are the ones that are the hardest to find and cost you the most money. I’m not blaming the restraints in the budget but we haven’t got the money to go out and sign a top striker'...

The player after Wilson in the scoring list is Connor McCarthy, on three in all competitions, and Chambers said, 'It’s our old Achilles heel, the stats don’t lie. “Defensively, we are probably up there in the top six teams in the league in terms of goals against. If you look at us in terms of goals scored, we are probably the worst. [Actually, Telford have the same total as Alty, both of whom have scorred one more than Stalybridge Celtic]. That’s it in a nutshell.

'The problem is we don’t create enough chances and, when we do, we don’t take them. That has been the situation, we don’t score goals'... Following the defeat, which brought to an end a four-match unbeaten run at the New Buck's Head, Telford now face a tough run of fixtures. Next up is a trip to league leaders AFC Fylde on Saturday with Tamworth at home the following weekend and then Salford City away."

Boston United report that "manager Adam Murray is on the lookout for a performance analyst to join his first team staff at The Jakemans Stadium... as a work placement student... Their aim will be to assist the first team manager and coaching staff. The individual will film all first team matches and support the staff with any instant post-match tasks that may be required of them... until the end of the season".

In the Worcester News we read that "Vastly experienced striker Lee Hughes has thrown his hat into the ring to become Worcester City’s new manager, insisting he’s 'up for it'.

The former West Bromwich Albion star says he is keen to take his first step into management...after Carl Heeley’s resignation. While City’s search for Heeley’s successor continues, Hughes, skipper Danny Jackman and stand-in boss John Snape have teamed up to lead the team. And Hughes... revealed he had spoken to the club's board to express his interest in taking charge.

'I would be up for it to be fair,' said the 40-year-old, who has scored 33 goals in 57 appearances since signing for Worcester in September 2015. 'I have spoken to the board, given them my ideas and what I would like to do, so we will see what they think. You never know'.

Hughes has a wealth of experience having played in the Premier League with West Brom and joined Coventry City for £5 million in 2001. He was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving following a fatal crash in November 2003. But after serving time in prison, Hughes returned to the game in 2007 and went on to play for a host of Football League clubs".

TROPHY DRAW

• Braintree Town/Dulwich Hamlet v Macclesfield Town
• York City v Brackley Town
• Sutton United/Boreham Wood v Lincoln City
• Tranmere Rovers/Chelmsford City v Barrow

SUPPORTERS' TRAVEL TO DARLINGTON

Details of times and fares are here. You can book by ringing the club during weekday office hours on 0161 928-1045.

ALAN GOODALL PLAYS IN RESERVES' WIN

Their next listed match is on 18 February away to Linotype Cheadle HN at Cheadle HN FC.

LADIES' MATCH OFF

YOUTH TEAM

Next Sunday's game is away at Ashton Athletic.

WINDFALL FOR YOUTH EDUCATION OPPONENTS

The EvoStik League reports that "Farsley Celtic are in exalted company after bagging a £20,000 plus windfall from UEFA! Along with English and European giants like Liverpool, Tottenham and Juventus, the EVO-STIK NPL First Division North club [is] sharing in a £150 million pot [that] European football's governing [body] is distributing to clubs who had players involved in the 2016 European Championships.

Thanks to former forward Adam Priestley's involvement in Gibraltar's inaugural European Championships qualification campaign, ahead of last summer's tournament in France, officials at Throstle Nest are set to bank a £21,589 bonus from UEFA. After the windfall was confirmed, delighted CEO Joshua Greaves was interviewed on TalkSPORT on Friday about their former player and the club's current and planned work in their community.

Now with Alfreton in National League North, the 26-year-old former Leeds United trainee, Garforth Town, Guiseley and Shaw Lane attacker has made 13 appearances for the tiny British colony where he was born. The Reds could be the next to benefit following his switch last year as Priestley is now looking forward to pulling off an unlikely qualification for the FIFA World Cup in 2018 in Russia".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Roma cites an increasingly difficult juggling act, balancing a busy home life, work as a teacher and an incredibly hands-on role at the football club as reasons for his decision to step down.

'It is obviously with a heavy heart I make the decision to step down with immediate effect from my role as manager at Gainsborough Trinity Football Club, for a long time this football club, this town has been a part of my life, I at this moment in time, just cannot give every aspect of my life the attention it deserves and something just had to give. It has been an honour and a privilege to pull on the shirt and to manage this fantastic club and although I am disappointed results and performances have not always been to the standard I would have hoped, it is not for want of trying.

'I wish The Chairman, the board, the club and the supporters every success for the future, and I genuinely mean it when I say the Gainsborough results will be the first I look for on a Saturday afternoon'...

The board have moved quickly to place Adam Quinn and Matt Wilson in temporary charge ahead of another crucial game, away at Bradford Park Avenue on Saturday" .

And from another club without a permanent manager, the Worcester News reports that "Managerless Worcester City showed 'a lot of encouraging signs' in their 1-1 draw with play-off chasing Tamworth, according to captain Danny Jackman.

A stunning strike from Lee Hughes was cancelled out by a Danny Newton penalty... It also capped off what Jackman described as a “tough” week after Carl Heeley ended his seven-year reign as manager. But the 34-year-old, who helped assist stand-in boss John Snape, said he was pleased with City’s 'response' after their 'demoralising' 3-0 defeat at Gloucester City last weekend...

'Compared to the Gloucester game it was quite a big difference, in my opinion, against a team who are doing quite well,' he said... 'On a slightly better pitch we would have perhaps got a win'...

Following the departure of Heeley, Jackman said he teamed up with Snape and Hughes to work on the tactics ahead of the game. But he admitted it was also important to raise the players’ morale and 'improve the whole atmosphere within the changing room'...

Jackman said he was happy with the way City performed in the second half despite seeing their winless streak extended to 11 league matches... 'We had some clear opportunities and looked more likely to win it as Tyler (Weir) had a great chance in the second half. But after the week we have had we are happy with a point'", he concluded.

CHESHIRE SENIOR CUP

ALTRINCHAM 0 FC HALIFAX TOWN 1

Match report here.

Right: Mike Ripley's image shows Elliott Newby in action for Altrincham on Saturday.

SHAYMEN'S VIEW

Striker Tom Denton missed the game through a heel injury that he picked up during the week, along with Josh MacDonald and Nathan Hotte who also had knocks. Danny Hone also missed through suspension. Defender Matty Brown made a belated return with his last appearance in a Halifax shirt coming at Wembley for Town’s FA Trophy victory last season.

It was on seven minutes when the fans really had something to shout about. A speculative ball into the channel was latched onto by forward Andrew Owens. The frontman looped his touch superbly round Brown and found himself inside the area with Sam Johnson onrushing. Brown had no choice as the striker checked past him and Owens was brought down. Penalty, said referee Declan Bourne.

Captain Jake Moult opted to take and his poor effort from the spot was saved by Johnson.

The ebb and flow of the game struggled from the off. With shouts of “wake up!” and “get the ball on the deck” coming from the main stand... Without a clear chance to note for either side, it was with just ten minutes remaining when King put Town ahead".

GATES

• Att 948 AFC Telford Utd 0 v 2 Gloucester City
• 1344 Altrincham 0 v 1 FC Halifax Town
• 1172 Boston United 0 v 3 Harrogate Town
• 1387 Chorley 1 v 1 Darlington 1883
• 227 Curzon Ashton 1 v 2 Bradford Park Avenue
• 572 Gainsborough Trinity 0 v 2 Alfreton Town
• 1486 Salford City 5 v 0 AFC Fylde
• 3765 Stockport County 3 v 1 Stalybridge Celtic
• 531 Worcester City 1 v 1 Tamworth

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

The home side took a 13th minute lead when defender Billy Priestley got on the end of a long throw... Three minutes later it was 2-0 when a George Green corner was half-cleared to Jordan Hulme, who fired home.

That was the end of the scoring until the 76th minute of what had been an end-to-end encounter. But it was game over when Mike Phenix broke away and deflected a Josh Hine shot past the visiting keeper.

It was 4-0 in the last minute of normal time when John Johnston`s header came back off the bar and Hulme finish it off. And Hume completed his hat-trick 4 minutes into stoppage time with a `Panenka` penalty straight down the middle!

Two other play-off contenders, Chorley and Darlington 1883, met at Victory Park and shared a 1-1 draw...

Stockport County occupy the final play-off spot after they beat second-bottom neighbours Stalybridge Celtic 3-1 at Edgeley Park. A super crowd of 3,765 saw Danny Lloyd give Stockport an early 8th minute lead with his 20th goal in all competitions...

The struggling visitors shocked County be levelling immediately after the break when Kieran Dunbar fired home into the top corner. But after 76 minutes, Lloyd was brought down by Danny Wilkins, and Lloyd duly converted his penalty to restore County`s lead. And 10 minutes later, substitute Jimmy Ball’s header from a Scott Duxbury corner made sure of the points...

Tamworth missed the opportunity to move above FA Halifax into sixth place after being held to a 1-1 draw at Bromsgrove by fifth-bottom Worcester City...

Boston United suffered a 3-0 defeat against Harrogate Town at the Jakeman`s Stadium. The visitors were a goal up in the first half, thanks to Simon Ainge’s 31st minute strike. And they increased their lead through Louie Swaine after 58 minutes before Joe Leesley scored from the spot 9 minutes from time.

Boston`s Lincolnshire neighbours Gainsborough Trinity also suffered a home defeat, beaten 2-0 by Alfreton Town... Craig Westcarr proved to be the Reds hero, bagging a brace in the 8th and then 59th minute...

Third-bottom Bradford Park Avenue pulled to within two points of the safety-mark after ending Curzon Ashton`s good mini run at the Tameside Stadium. James Knowles put Avenue in front after 22 minutes. Matty Warburton, who has proven to be a great re-signing, equalised 4 minutes before half-time. But Danny Boshell won it for the Yorkshire side with 20 minutes remaining.

That result didn`t do anything for AFC Telford United`s confidence after they went down to a 2-0 defeat at the New Bucks Head to a now tenth-placed Gloucester City".

ALTRINCHAM 0 FC HALIFAX TOWN 1

Alty defend in a congested penalty area during the first half against FC Halifax Town.

A scrappy game was won by a scrappy goal as Liam King's deflected effort beat Tim Deasy with just nine minutes remaining of this dour encounter, in which the gap between bottom-placed Altrincham and play-off hopefuls FC Halifax Town was barely discernible for long periods.

And, of course, the winner just had to be scored by one of Halifax's three ex-Alty players, Liam King, who spent a loan period from Rotherham United at Moss Lane in 2008.

The winner came just as Altrincham were beginning to show a bit of spark going forward but, in truth, they scarcely troubled visiting keeper, apart from in the eighth minute of the game, when Jake Moult blasted a penalty straight at the Halifax keeper, who beat the ball away. The spot kick had been won by Andy Owens, following good work from Nicky Clee.

Match report here.

RESULTS

• Altrincham 0 - 1 FC Halifax T.
• Boston 0 - 3 Harrogate T.
• Chorley 1 - 1 Darlington 1883
• Curzon Ashton 1 - 2 Bradford PA
• Gainsborough T. 0 - 2 Alfreton T.
• Salford C. 5 - 0 AFC Fylde
• Stockport C. 3 - 1 Stalybridge C.
• AFC Telford U. 0 - 2 Tamworth

FA TROPHY

• Barrow 1 - 0 Kidderminster Harriers
• Braintree T. 0 - 0 Dulwich Hamlet
• Macclesfield T. 1 - 0 Forest Green Rovers
• Nuneaton T. 0 - 3 York City
• Sutton U. 0 - 0 Boreham Wood
• Tranmere Rovers 1 - 1 Chelmsford C.
• Wealdstone 1 - 4 Brackley Town
• Welling Utd 1 - 3 Lincoln City

PLAYER UPDATE FROM MATT DOUGHTY

"Damian Reeves is available again, having recovered from the illness that forced him to miss last Saturday’s 4-1 defeat against the runaway league leaders, AFC Fylde..

3-0 down inside half an hour, James Lawrie gave us a lifeline with a goal just before half time and if Andy Owens had scored with a great chance after about an hour, we would have been right back in it, but Fylde scored again with about a quarter of an hour to go and that was that. Nicky Clee and Gary Jones were injured in the first half of that game, but both are available today, but Tom Hannigan broke down after a few minutes at training on Thursday with a recurrence of the hip injury that he sustained at Chorley and he is almost certain to be missing today.

Alan Goodall (left) will be aiming to get a full game under his belt for the reserves today, so he should be back in contention for next Saturday’s trip to Darlington...

I have tried to bring two players in on loan this week but neither have proven successful. An indication of how difficult it is to attract players to a club that is struggling as badly as we are, is that a striker with a Football League club opted for a loan move to a club playing in a lower league than us, because they are doing well in their league and I suppose you can’t really blame him for making that decision.

Our position at the foot of the table, 17 points from safety, is so bad, that there is no point in focusing on bridging that massive gap. We need to win a league game, first and foremost, then go from there… hopefully, we can do just that this afternoon".

ALTRINCHAM v FC HALIFAX TOWN: LIVE COVERAGE

Brian Flynn announces that "Radio Robins, sponsored by Ashley Mowers Garden Machinery, is providing full live commentary of Saturday's game at The J.Davidson Stadium.

The commentators are Alex Sarwar and Paul Salt and the match summariser is John Edwards.

You can listen to Radio Robins on the internet at www.radiorobins.com.

BEFORE THE GAME ON SATURDAY

Doughty, who is also assistant coach of Everton’s under 11s to another former Halifax [and Altrincham] player Tom Kearney, said, 'I’ve spoken to a lot of managers like Chris Wilder, Jim Gannon, Steve Burr, and they’ve said to me it’s tough to take over mid-season because it’s not your team. If you take over in the summer you have a blank canvas and you can do what you want.

'I would like to get it beyond this season and if I can get some wins then why can’t I?... The recruitment in the summer wasn’t good enough. It was the poorest I’ve ever seen. But the application and attitude is all there, we’ve got the mindset right.

'They were getting booed off under Jim Harvey and Neil Young, but now we’re getting clapped off because of the demands we’ve put onto the players. The only thing missing is the results, the performances are there...

'We’ve got some very good players; they were in the Conference National last season... The chairman is backing me 100 per cent but but he needs to see if we can win games, which is fair enough. If we lose all our remaining games then there’s no chance I’ll get the job. But the fans can see there’s been a big improvement'...

'I’ve got it until the end of the season but it’s up to me to pick up some wins... My man management comes from Chris Wilder. He was second to none at that. If I drop a player, I will tell them what they need to do to get back in the team'...

He added, 'I had four great years at Halifax. I’ll always remember my time there and I met some great people... We could do with beating them on Saturday but I think they’ll get in the play-offs; they’ve got the squad to do it.

'It’ll be a big ask to get a result against them. They’ve got a great strike-force with the likes of Tom Denton, Richard Peniket and Adam Morgan, plus Matty Kosylo is in great form at the moment. They’ve got threats all over the pitch but so have we on our day'".

The same source cites defender Scott Garner as saying "'We dropped points against Altrincham at home which was really sloppy, so we are owed three points from them so we’ll be going there to claim that'...

Garner is one of just many who are surprised to see such a fall from grace [by Altrincham] but... 'When we drew 2-2 with them we thought that they would be up there anyway but they have done nothing since then. It’s been a bit of a shock. Now that they are down there they must be low on confidence so we’ve got to take it to them and show them what a good team we are'.

The Shaymen should have been going into the game coming off the back of a match against Alfreton in mid-week but heavy rain meant that the fixture had to be postponed for the second time this season...

'We’ll be chomping at the bit even more to have another game because of it'...

'We had that bad run of eight games but I think the turnaround if anything it just showed the true strength of the squad and the staff and the management in that everyone stuck together'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

He played for Rhyl`s league rivals Bangor City in the 2015/16 season... He previously played in the English non-League Pyramid for Trafford, Mossley AFC, New Mills, Chorley and Salford City having started out at Sheffield United."

Next, news of an ex-Alty loanee as "Curzon Ashton have announced the departure of midfielder Liam Tomsett... due to travel reasons. He has shown immense commitment... travelling to matches and training from his home in Barrow, Cumbria".

NL Pitchero also states that Alty's next away opponents, "Darlington 1883, who sit 6th in the Vanarama National League North, have conceded 43 goals already this season. It’s something that boss Martin Gray is unhappy about...

Gray said, 'We haven’t defended well as season... We’ve had a number of conversations with the players... You can’t just point the finger at defenders. Defending starts all over the pitch...

A lot of our goals we have conceded this season has been when we have good attacking positions and the lads have made the wrong decisions...

The former Oxford United midfielder believes that it "is a good thing we have put ourselves in a position that we can contend and that we can challenge, no team has given us a real good thumping this season... We’ve held our own against everybody and that has put you up against the likes of your Fyldes and Kidderminsters of the league, we have taken points off everybody'".

NW NEWS

The troubled Vics are on life support and need to find around £30,000... If they don’t find the money, the future looks bleak but the club’s Supporters’ Association are trying to keep the club in existence...

Acting chairman Brian Turner is on the record saying as saying the struggle is a ‘major concern’... He said, 'If we don’t find the money we still need and find people to help push this club forward then the reality of the situation is that we have no future...

We can’t afford the rent we are currently paying by groundsharing at Witton Albion and if we get through this period the club will be leaving in the summer. It’s all gone very wrong since we left the Victoria Stadium in 2012 but we believe in the club and with prompt support if someone is out there, we can one day prosper again'".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The figure in excess of GBP2.1million is the largest wage bill the club have ever recorded... The accounts show net liabilities of more than GBP5 million - virtually all of which is down to 'amounts owed to group undertakings.'

The statement reads, 'The majority of current liabilities are owed to fellow Group companies and Group management have no intention of calling in these debts'...

Ecotricity hold 87 per-cent of the club's shares, the total book value of which, according to the latest annual return is GBP10,276,940. Rovers' wage bill in excess of GBP2.1million was almost certainly the highest of any club in the National League".

NL PItchero reports that ""Andy Preece has thrown his hat into the ring to become the new manager of Southport... They are looking for a new boss after saying goodbye to Steve Burr this week... Port are just one place and one point outside the relegation zone and have placed former manager Liam Watson in charge...

They won’t hurry an appointment but CVs have already landed on the desk of chairman Charlie Clapham. One is from former Northwich Victoria and Worcester City manager Preece... There have been other names linked with the job too, including ex Chester and Altrincham manager Neil Young but that, it is said, is not likely to go ahead.

Southport will only consider a manager with experience... Watson, the club’s former boss who returned in a behind-the-scenes role earlier this season, said this week that he is happy to help out until the club are in a position to confirm Burr’s replacement."

3 February 2017

TOMI RELEASED

Altrincham's Press and Media Officer, John Edwards, writes that "Striker Tomi Adeloye (right) has been released by Altrincham, three weeks after being given the chance to try and prove he could make his mark in the Vanarama National League North.

Alty manager Matt Doughty signed Adeloye on the recommendation of Chester City boss Jon McCarthy, who felt the 20-year old had shown up well in a trial at the Deva Stadium but was unable to offer him a place in his Vanarama National League squad.

Though there were signs of promise in an encouraging full Alty debut against Gainsborough Trinity at The J.Davidson Stadium, the one-time Stoke City youth forward failed to make much impact in three subsequent appearances as substitute against Chorley, Brackley and AFC Fylde.

'It was a gamble that didn't really work out, after Jon recommended him to us,' explained Alty boss Doughty. 'We gave him the platform to show what he's about, but he didn't quite take it as I would have hoped.

'He did OK against Gainsborough, and he does have some good attributes. If I'm being honest, though, I just wanted a bit more from him effort-wise. In our situation, it's got to be 100 per cent from everyone. We can't accept anything less. It is unfortunate it hasn't worked out, but I wish him well for the future.'"

Footnote: Adeloye becomes the twenty-fourth player (including five loanees) to leave Altrincham since the start of the 2016-17 season. He made one start and three appearances from the bench.

PAUL DAINE HONOURED

Paul is managing director of Premium Collections, based in Timperley with a second office in Harrogate. Born in Sale, Paul has lived and worked in the area for most of his life. He has been a member of the Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce for more than 10 years.

He said , 'I am very excited to be remaining as president for a second term. It gives me the opportunity to continue the work I have started with the board, the members and the wider business community..

He continued, 'There is so much I have enjoyed during my first year of presidency but perhaps the highlight was the Business Awards event in October. It is the Chamber’s flagship event of the year and recognises the hard work and achievements of so many of our members as well as non-member business in the area that are eager to enter the awards. In my second term I hope to strengthen the Chamber’s links with other business groups, with the Council and with local education providers.”

NATIONAL LEAGUE AND BRITISH ARMY GAMES

Press release:

"The National League and The British Army are pleased to jointly announce that they will field three representative sides to play each other simultaneously on Wednesday 29th March with the matches being staged at Harrogate Town, Tamworth and Eastbourne Borough respectively.

All three matches will be supported in partnership by Vanarama and S&C Slatter Ltd.

The purposes of these matches are:

• Strengthen existing ties between The National League and The British Army at a recognised sporting event.
• Enhance the community relationships between local member clubs and Army units in and around the locations selected for these matches.

Full details for each of these matches will be detailed in due course but they will kick off at 7.45pm with an entry price of £5 for Adults (including match programme) whilst seniors and juniors will be FREE.

Brian Barwick, Chairman of The National League said 'This is an innovative approach and we are pleased that with the cooperation of our member clubs we will be able to consolidate the relationships we have collectively and individually with the Army. We look forward to three enjoyable encounters on the field and meeting up on the evening in three different parts of the country, thus enabling fans to come and support these matches. Our grateful thanks are extended to everyone who is working to make each a success'".

Major General Mitch Mitchell, Chairman of the Army FA endorsed those comments by saying “Over the last two years the support of The National League itself, along with their member clubs and their title sponsors Vanarama has allowed us to forge new links in communities wherever we are based and to assist personnel leaving to return to their working community. These links grow daily for the benefit of all concerned and these three matches will cement even further the ties existing.

The Army FA is pleased to join in this venture and hope that it will attract a good following both military and civilian on 29th March. We have strong community connections with the three venues chosen".

The National League adds that "the players will be solely selected from the North and South clubs".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Chapman, who was in his second spell with the Stags, made seven first-team appearances this season, but was suffering a groin injury. He started his career with Sheffield United and... [made] twenty appearances on loan with Oxford United in the 2008/09 season when they were members of the Conference Premier.

He left the Blades at the end of that season and signed a permanent deal with Oxford for a fee of £15,000 with a 50% sell-on clause. He was named man of the match in Oxford's Conference Promotion Final victory at Wembley in May 2010. It was whilst at Oxford that Chapman had his first spell with Mansfield, joining on loan in March 2013...

He moved to Newport County... in the summer of 2013. He played seventy-five times for the Exiles, scoring 5 times, before returning to Mansfield, this time on a more permanent basis, in May 2015".

Also from the National League we learn that "Nick Haughton has re-joined Salford City from Fleetwood Town until the end of the season. Haughton originally joined the Ammies on short-term loan in November 2016... He went on to make four appearances, with three more from the bench... He was recalled by Fleetwood... but is now back to join the Ammies' promotion push".

According to NL Pitchero, "Stockport County midfielder Lewis Montrose has signed a two-year extension to his contract which will keep him with the club until the summer of 2019.

Montrose said, 'I'm very excited to have signed the contract and secured my future with County because they've been great to me; they're a great set of fans, the gaffer and his staff are brilliant and at 28 years old I'm still learning, so I'm delighted to be able to stay here and continue improving my game, which is what I want to do at this stage of my career. It wasn't a hard decision: I'm enjoying my football, I love the club and it's great to get the longevity of a two-year deal, as I did when I first signed for Stockport County...

what I want to do is get us into the play-offs, that is literally all I'm thinking about, not the contract'...

Montrose is County's reigning player of the year and has made more than sixty appearances since joining from York City in the summer of 2015. The Manchester-born midfielder spent his formative years as a trainee at Manchester City before moving to Wigan Athletic. He went on to have an illustrious career in the Football League, winning promotion to League One with Wycombe Wanderers in 2011 and being part of a Gillingham squad which won the League Two title in 2013.

Montrose has made a huge impression both on and off the pitch since arriving at Edgeley Park, and is a tremendous ambassador for County in the local community. He said, 'I came to County from full-time football so when I joined it was a bit of a shock just filling my time, because you get such limited time to train with your team-mates, so I spoke to the guys in the Community Foundation about the sports coaching they do in schools, I met with their manager Dave Wardle and he gave me a job in the Community team and I'm really thankful because it's been a great opportunity for me.'

Montrose joins Ben Hinchliffe, Sam Minihan and Michael Clarke in signing new deals to stay at Edgeley Park beyond the end of this season."

The National League reports that "AFC Telford United have completed the signing of goalkeeper Matt Urwin from Fleetwood Town. The 23-year-old joins the Bucks on loan until the end of the season subject to completion of paperwork. The former AFC Fylde and Stalybridge Celtic keeper was part of the Coasters side that reached the First Round of the FA Cup last season...

Unwin started his career at Blackburn Rovers before moving to Bradford City. Bucks' boss Rob Smith has moved swiftly to bring Unwin in following the sale of James Montgomery to Gateshead on Monday".

Also from the National League, comes news that, "West Bromwich Albion have sent young Chay Scrivens out on loan to Worcester City for the remainder of the season. The 19-year-old midfielder made six appearances for Torquay United in the opening half of this season whilst on loan at Plainmoor".

VICE-CHAIRMAN RESIGNS

"Altrincham Vice Chairman, Andrew Shaw, has resigned his position on the board stating 'I have enjoyed my time at Altrincham and hope that I have brought some value during my fifteen years at the club. I wish the club well for the future and, whilst I am resigning with immediate effect, I will honour my remaining match-day commitments in the short term and will be attending Saturday's game at home to FC Halifax Town'.

Chairman, Grahame Rowley, speaking on behalf of the board, thanked Andrew for his service as Vice-Chairman at Altrincham, stating 'Following the resignation of the previous board in 2002, Andrew, along with Geoff Goodwin and myself, formed a new board and my current fellow directors and I would like to thank him for his positive contribution over a significant period of time. The Board respects Andrew's decision and wishes him well in his continuing role as a Divisional Representative with the Football Association, with Altrincham remaining his home club amongst the fifteen North West clubs that Andrew represents. We are in the process of trying to strengthen at Board level and hope to be able to announce a new board member within the next few days."

YOUTH OPPONENTS' VIEW

Altrincham had the first real chance of the contest, a back-post header flying wide of the far post... The second half continued to be a tight affair but Chester were beginning to wonder if their wastefulness in front of goal would cost them... Altrincham had a chance of their own late in the game, a quick break from a Chester corner saw a lob beat the advancing Hodges but also clear the crossbar.

With the game looking destined for extra-time, Alex Downes was chopped down on the left hand side to give Chester a chance to put the ball in the box with another yellow card issued to Altrincham. Nathan Brown's delivery was headed back across the goal for Downes to fire home from inside the six yard box with just seconds remaining. The referee blew the final whistle from the restart as the Blues secured another late winner against the Robins"

UNITED VIEW

Altrincham... started the game with the majority of their first team on duty, whilst United were represented by a selection close to that which won 5-2 at Sunderland three days earlier with the notable addition of Reserves' centre-back Regan Poole in defence. Something in the region of 200 hardy fans had braved the deluge to attend the game and it was the home supporters who were celebrating in the 19th minute when Tom Hannigan scored with a glancing header from Andy McWilliams's assist.

Sam Heathcote almost increased the home side’s advantage on the half-hour, but United’s goalkeeper Alex Fojtíček did well to prevent the shot from finding net... The United players opened the second half looking like they meant business and within two minutes they were on level terms after Gomes, the club's leading goalscorer at Under-18 level this season, had curled a shot past Altrincham keeper Tim Deasy.

Left: Courtesy of Mike Ripley, above, we see Tom Hannigan receiving congratulations after scoring Altrincham's opening goal on Tuesday night.

The relentless rain continued to drench the J Davidson Stadium, but the atrocious conditions didn’t prevent the Robins' Diego Sedoc from lobbing his side back into the lead in the 58th minute. The Reds almost grabbed a last-gasp equaliser following an almighty scramble in the Altrincham goalmouth, but the home side defended heroically to preserve their lead".

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

County started the more brightly... Elliot Osborne’s 24th minute corner kick flew beyond keeper Laurie Walker and was touched home by Courtney Meppen-Walters at the far post. Lee Ndlovu’s fierce 20-yard effort was pawed away by Stockport keeper Ben Hiin but the visitors doubled their advantage in the 36th minute when Meppen-Walters’ shot somehow evaded Walker to find the net and rock the home side...

Saints enjoyed lots of second half possession but carried little threat near goal... An 83rd minute goal from Josh Amis put a final gloss on the evening for the visitors. They celebrated their first win against Saints in four attempts".

NORTHERN NEWS

The fire, which was deemed to have been started deliberately, was quickly dealt with but there was smoke and water damage which is currently being dealt with.

General Manager Adie Towers said, 'The Football Club would like to thank the member of the public who alerted the emergency services and thank the Fire Service for their swift response to the incident, which prevented the fire spreading to the changing rooms and clubhouse and causing more extensive damage'...

The Academy match against Hyde today (Wednesday) has been postponed, as has the Vixens’ match against Hull City Ladies FC on Sunday... Towers added, 'Our next home game in the Vanarama National League against Eastleigh on Saturday 11th February will go ahead; it will be business as usual'".

ALTRINCHAM 2-1 MANCHESTER UNITED UNDER-18S

At a rain-sodden J. Davidson Stadium, Manchester United's under-18s gave a good workout to an Altrincham team which utilised nine substitutes (including five trialists) during the second half.

Altrincham took a 19th minute lead when Tom Hannigan back-headed a goal from a fine ball into the box by Andy McWilliams.

Right: Michael Bakare leaves the pitch at the end of the game. Behind him are Alty manager Matt Doughty and former Alty striker Colin Little, now a coach with United.

Having made three changes at the interval, Alty had not settled when United equalised in the 47th minute through Gomes (47 mins). But, although United had more of the attacking play in the second half, it was Alty who scored again when substitute trialist Diego Sedoc superbly lobbed United' keeper Fojkicek just before the hour mark.

Sam Heathcote limped off leaving Alty with ten men to see out the final two minutes and four more of added time.

Match report here.

TUESDAY RESULTS

Tue. 31 Jan.

• Alfreton Town P-P FC Halifax Town
• Brackley Town 0-3 Stockport County
• Gloucester City 2-0 Tamworth

VANARAMA NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH NEWS

Heeley spent seven years as manager of the outfit who have been in exile since 2013 with assistant John Snape and player Danny Jackman now in caretaker charge after his exit. However, the 48-year-old revealed the 'internal politics' with 'people pulling in different directions' was one of the reasons why he stepped down at the weekend...

'I would like to urge everybody associated with the club to be constructive together and maybe put their differences aside before it is too late,' Heeley said. With money running out and no plan for the future on the table, Worcester City Supporters’ Trust launched a bid in the summer to turn the sixth-tier side into a Community Benefit Society (CBS). They said the move would help the club raise capital to build their proposed 4,419-capacity stadium at Perdiswell Park.

However, their bid was scuppered following an unsuccessful shareholders’ vote in July which sparked calls for chairman Anthony Hampson to resign... Heeley, who was on the board for a short period last year, insisted...

'We can’t have people pulling in different directions,' he said. 'You have got to find a common ground and all look at what you can do because there is a lot of bitterness, animosity and internal politics. And that’s one of the reasons why I stepped down... It is tearing the club apart. No individuals are to blame but people need to stop pointing fingers at individuals and saying, "It is your fault". People need to start pulling in the right direction and forget about personal and collective agendas because the only agenda is the survival of the club'.

Heeley also praised the work of Hampson who has been City’s chairman since 2008 and urged people to come forward to help the club. 'Anthony is a lovely man, he’s genuine and wants to do his best,' said Heeley who took over as manager in 2010... 'Worcester City’s predicament started in the 1980s and it has gradually got worse and worse. It is at a critical point now where if people want them to survive then you have all got to step forward and do your bit. Help and don’t be critical of people. The first question you need to ask yourself is what have I done and more importantly what can I do now because everybody’s help is needed'".

The National League reports that "Making his debut for Stalybridge Celtic in the Tameside derby against Curzon Ashton on Monday night was new striker Sefton Gonzales, who came on as a second half substitute in the goalless draw. Gonzales joins Celtic after a short spell with Colne FC... whom he joined in December 2016 from home-town club Chorley.

He had two stints with Clitheroe separated by a spell at Stockport County in 2015 and a loan of a month at Salford City... He played with Kendal Town in 2014 and Droylsden in 2013".

Elsewhere, "Nuneaton Town have announced that after a meeting of the Safety Advisory Group today, the maximum attendance at The Coombe Abbey Arena has been raised to 3,200. The change in capacity comes after the club moved away from using the south side turnstiles and [it has] been working towards creating its own access and egress points on its own land. This has now been achieved... This figure could still yet rise as future works, once completed, will see a further 900 more on top of that, increasing the maximum capacity to 4,100."

Meanwhile "Defender Steve Tomassen has left Tamworth and joined Airbus UK Broughton on loan until the end of this season... Despite featuring regularly for the Lambs` this season, competition for places in defensive areas is growing following the return to fitness of Paul Green, and with Luke Jones suspension ending.

Commenting on the departure, Tamworth boss Andy Morrell said, 'I think he needs to freshen up his head a little bit. He has been here a year and a half and he has been great for us, really good. As a player, at 6`2”, he's aggressive and, as a footballer, he can play and he is quite quick. So, he has the attributes but I just don't think he has been fully switched on this season. He has still played a lot of games and done all right but I think he can give so much more and I just want him to go out and have a fresh start somewhere.

'It is not a definite 'no' as to whether I am not going to keep him on next year but I think he needs to go out and play some football and be a big part of something else for a little bit'".